Lens barrel

ABSTRACT

A body of a lens frame, which is a lens barrel of the present invention, consists of an inner frame for holding a lens, an intermediate frame in which an adjusting screw is screwed, and an outer frame in which an adjusting screw is screwed. The frames are connected to one another by parallel springs. In the case of this lens frame, the inner frame is displaced in the direction of X-axis or a horizontal axis by screwing the adjusting screw thereinto in the direction of the horizontal axis and screwing another adjusting screw thereinto by the direction of a vertical axis. Thus, the inner frame is displaced in Y-direction through the intermediate frames. Consequently, the translation of the position of the optical axis of the lens is performed without inclination of the intermediate frame. Hence, the adjustment of the position of the optical axis is easily achieved. Moreover, this lens frame achieves a reduction in the cost of components thereof.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/351,676, filed Jan. 23, 2003, now allowed, which is a divisional of application Ser. No. 10/141,209, filed May 7, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,556,362, issued Apr. 29, 2003, which is a divisional of application Ser. No. 09/872,043, filed Jun. 1, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,411,448, issued Jun. 25, 2002, which is a divisional of application Ser. No. 09/469,763, filed Dec. 22, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,262,853, issued Jul. 17, 2001, in the name of Tatsuo Takanashi and Mitsuhiro Sato and entitled “LENS BARREL”.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to a lens barrel enabled to adjust the position of an optical axis of a frame member and/or the inclination of the optical axis thereof.

[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art

[0005] A conventional lens adjusting device for correcting misalignment of the center of an optical axis of a lens according to a utility model relating to a lens frame is proposed in the Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 60-150511 Official Gazette, utilizes rotatable eccentric screws or pins. This conventional device has an adjusting structure including plural notch portions, each of which is provided in an outer periphery of the lens and engaged with an eccentric pin. The aforementioned device causes a micro-movement of the lens in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis thereof by rotating the eccentric pins, so that the centering of the lens is achieved.

[0006] However, the conventional device proposed in the Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 60-150511 Official Gazette requires plural eccentric pins and is thus disadvantageous in its cost. Further, it is necessary for moving the lens in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis to simultaneously or alternately rotate plural eccentric pins. Therefore, the conventional device has a drawback in that it is difficult to perform the centering of the lens. Moreover, in the case of some support structure for the lens, there is the possibility that when the eccentric pins are rotated, the optical axis of the lens does not simply perform translation but inclines.

[0007] Furthermore, a conventional method of assembling a lens system for correcting the misalignment of the lens frame, which includes the inclination of the optical axis thereof, is proposed in the Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 59-68710 Official Gazette. According to this conventional method, a lens system is assembled, and aligned by correcting the misalignment of the inclination of the optical axis of a lens that is held adjacent with other lenses by space forming rings, and by subsequently bonding the lenses with the space forming rings on the outer periphery thereof and fixing the lenses thereon.

[0008] In the case of the assembling method proposed in the Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 59-68710, there is the probability that the optical center is changed simultaneously with adjusting the inclination of the optical axis of the lens. Hence, the adjustment of only the inclination of the optical axis of the lens cannot be performed. Further, even in the case of adjusting the inclination and position of the optical axis of a lens, both the inclination and position thereof simultaneously change, as described above. Thus, this conventional method has a drawback in that it is difficult to perform such an adjusting operation.

[0009] Moreover, a semiconductor laser light source serving as a device including an optical axis position adjusting structure of a support portion (namely, a frame portion) for supporting an optical component is disclosed in the Japanese Patent Publication No. 61-46895 Official Gazette, which device has an optical axis position adjusting structure that can perform fine adjustment of the optical axis position of a frame portion for supporting a semiconductor laser chip. FIG. 40 is an enlarged diagram illustrating the concept of the optical axis position adjusting structure.

[0010] In the optical axis position adjusting structure, a frame portion 311 b for holding a laser light source portion acting as an optical component is supported against a support portion 311 a through an elastically deformable cantilever-like plate spring portion 311 c. When a side of a lens frame portion 311 b is pushed by exerting a pressing force F₀ thereon so as to adjust the optical axis position in the lateral direction of the optical component, the optical axis position Z₀ is displaced leftwardly, as viewed in this figure, to a position Z₁, to which the optical axis position is adjusted, by a movement amount δ_(x0).

[0011] However, simultaneously, the optical axis position is displaced upwardly or downwardly by a movement amount δ_(y0), so that the adjustment of the optical axis position in the upward or downward direction is necessary. Furthermore, when the center of the optical axis is moved from the position Z₀ to the position Z₁, the optical component rotates around the optical axis. This adversely affects the entire optical system. Thus, this conventional device has a drawback in that the adjustment of the optical axis position cannot be favorably achieved.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The present invention is accomplished to eliminate the aforementioned drawbacks of the prior art. Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a lens barrel, which reliably and easily achieves the adjustment of an optical member, by operations that center and adjust the optical axis of the optical member.

[0013] In one form thereof, the objects of the invention are realized with the lens barrel which comprises a first frame and a second frame, at least one of which holds an optical device, e.g., a lens. The first frame has respective first and second frame portions and the second frame has respective third and fourth frame portions.

[0014] Associated with the first frame is a first adjusting member that is constructed to move either the first or the second frame portion in a direction that lies in a plane that is substantially orthogonal to the optical axis of the lens barrel. A respective second adjusting member performs a similar function for the second frame.

[0015] In accordance with preferred embodiments, the adjusting members can be in the form of a threadable screw whose threading direction extends orthogonally to the optical axis of the lens. The adjusting directions of the first and second adjusting members may preferably be orthogonal to one another.

[0016] In accordance with preferred embodiments, also included is a guide frame that movably guides at least one of the first and second frames in the direction of the optical axis. The first and second frames are constructed to be insertable into the guide frame, which is so constructed as to allow access to at least one of the first and second adjusting members from outside of the guide frame.

[0017] A cam ring can be provided in which the first frame and the second frame are receivable, one behind the other, with the cam ring being in turn receivable within the guide frame. The first and second frames may comprise respective cam followers and the cam followers are receivable within guiding slots in the guide frame.

[0018] Thus, the adjusting members deform first and second connecting portions that connect the first and second frame portions and the third and fourth frame portions, respectively. By this action, the frame portions are translated in planes that are substantially orthogonal to the optical axis without causing rotational displacement of the frame portions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Other features, objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings in which like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout several views, and in which:

[0020]FIG. 1(A) is an enlarged plan view showing an example of the concept of an optical axis position adjusting structure of a lens frame in a lens barrel of the present invention in the case of employing a structure in which a frame portion is cantilevered by a parallel spring;

[0021]FIG. 1(B) is an enlarged plan view showing another example of the concept of the optical axis position adjusting structure of a lens frame in a lens barrel of the present invention in the case of employing a structure in which a frame portion is supported at both ends thereof by parallel springs;

[0022]FIG. 1(C) is an enlarged plan view showing still another example of the concept of the optical axis position adjusting structure of a lens frame in a lens barrel of the present invention in the case of employing a structure in which a frame portion is supported at both ends thereof by opposed simple plate springs;

[0023]FIG. 2 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is a first embodiment of a lens barrel of the present invention;

[0024]FIG. 3 is a sectional view taken on line I-O-I of FIG. 2;

[0025]FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which the lens frame of the first embodiment is inserted into a guide frame of the lens barrel;

[0026]FIG. 5 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is a second embodiment of the lens barrel of the present invention;

[0027]FIG. 6 is a sectional view taken on line II-O-II of FIG. 5;

[0028]FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a state in which a feed screw and a guide shaft are fitted into the lens frame of the second embodiment;

[0029]FIG. 8 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is a third embodiment of the lens barrel of the present invention;

[0030]FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken on line III-O-III of FIG. 8;

[0031]FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the lens frame of the third embodiment;

[0032]FIG. 11 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is a fourth embodiment of the lens barrel of the present invention;

[0033]FIG. 12 is a sectional view taken on line IV-O-IV of FIG. 11;

[0034]FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the lens frame of the fourth embodiment;

[0035]FIG. 14 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is a fifth embodiment of the lens barrel of the present invention;

[0036]FIG. 15 is a sectional view taken on line V-O-V of FIG. 14;

[0037]FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of the lens frame of the fifth embodiment;

[0038]FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of the lens frame of the fifth embodiment in which a cam ring is incorporated;

[0039]FIG. 18 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is a sixth embodiment of the lens barrel of the present invention;

[0040]FIG. 19 is a sectional view taken on line VI-O-VI of FIG. 18;

[0041]FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of the lens frame of the sixth embodiment;

[0042]FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of the lens frame of the sixth embodiment in which a cam ring is incorporated;

[0043]FIG. 22 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is a seventh embodiment of the lens barrel of the present invention;

[0044]FIG. 23(A) is a sectional view taken on line VII-O-VII of FIG. 22;

[0045]FIG. 23(B) is a sectional view taken on line VIII-O-VIII of FIG. 22;

[0046]FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a lens frame of the seventh embodiment;

[0047]FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view of the lens frame of the seventh embodiment in which a cam ring is incorporated;

[0048]FIG. 26 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is an eighth embodiment of the lens barrel of the present invention;

[0049]FIG. 27 is a sectional view taken on line IX-IX of FIG. 26;

[0050]FIG. 28 is a sectional view taken on line XI-XI of FIG. 26;

[0051]FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the lens frame of the eighth embodiment in a state into which an optical device is inserted;

[0052]FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of a lens barrel that is a ninth embodiment of the present invention;

[0053]FIG. 31 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame applied to a lens barrel that is a ninth embodiment of the present invention;

[0054]FIG. 32 is a sectional view taken on line XII-O-XII of FIG. 31;

[0055]FIG. 33 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is a second frame applied to the lens barrel that is the ninth embodiment of the present invention;

[0056]FIG. 34 is a sectional view taken on line XIII-O-XIII of FIG. 33;

[0057]FIG. 35 is an exploded perspective view of a lens barrel that is a tenth embodiment of the present invention;

[0058]FIG. 36 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame having a first frame applied to the lens barrel that is the tenth embodiment of the present invention;

[0059]FIG. 37 is a sectional view taken on line XIV-O-XIV of FIG. 36;

[0060]FIG. 38 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame having a second frame applied to the lens barrel that is the tenth embodiment of the present invention;

[0061]FIG. 39 is a sectional view taken on line XV-O-XV of FIG. 38; and

[0062]FIG. 40 is an enlarged view of an optical axis position adjusting structure of a conventional frame portion.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0063] Before the detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, a description is given about the concept of an optical axis position adjusting structure, which is applicable to a lens barrel of the present invention, for adjusting the optical axis position (namely, a position in a direction perpendicular to a direction of an optical axis) of a lens frame (namely, a frame member), which is operative to hold an optical device.

[0064] In the case of the optical axis position adjusting structure of the lens frame, an optical device is directly or indirectly supported by an elastically deformable plate spring and pushes the frame portion in an adjusting direction. Thus, the optical axis position of an optical device is adjusted. FIGS. 1(A), 1(B), and 1(C) are enlarged diagrams schematically illustrating the adjusting structures, which differ from one another in frame-portion supporting structure. FIG. 1(A) shows a structure in which a frame portion is cantilevered by a parallel spring. FIG. 1(B) shows a structure in which a frame portion is supported at both ends thereof by parallel springs. FIG. 1(C) shows a structure in which a frame portion is supported at both ends thereof by opposed simple plate springs.

[0065] In the case of the optical axis position adjusting structure of the lens frame of FIG. 1(A), a frame portion 301 b for holding an optical device is supported against a support portion 301 a by an elastically deformable cantilevered parallel spring portion 301 c. When a side of the frame portion 301 b is pushed by exerting a pressing force F_(a) thereon so as to adjust the optical axis position in the lateral direction of the optical device, the optical axis position A₀ is displaced leftwardly, as viewed in this figure, to a position A₁, to which the optical axis position is adjusted, by a movement amount δ_(xa). The parallel spring portion 301 c deforms while maintaining nearly the horizontal position (parallel position) thereof. Thus, a movement amount δ_(ya) in an upward or downward direction is very small Consequently, the rotational component of a movement of the optical device held in the frame portion is very small, so that favorable adjustment is achieved.

[0066] In the case of the frame position adjusting structure of FIG. 1(B), a frame portion 302 b for supporting an optical device is supported at both ends thereof against a support portion 302 a by elastically deformable parallel spring portions 302 c and 302 e, which are in a both-end supporting state. When a side of the frame portion 302 b is pushed by exerting a pressing force F_(b) thereon so as to adjust the optical axis position in the lateral direction of the optical device, the optical axis position B₀ is displaced leftwardly, as viewed in this figure, to a position B₁, to which the optical axis position is adjusted, by a movement amount δ_(xb). The parallel spring portions 302 c and 302 e deform while these spring portions support the frame portion 302 b from above and below by maintaining a state in which these spring portions are nearly parallel to each other. Thus, a movement amount δ_(yb) in an upward or downward direction is very small. Consequently, the rotational component of a movement of the optical device held in the frame portion is very small, so that favorable adjustment is attained.

[0067] In the case of the frame position adjusting structure of FIG. 1(C), a frame portion 303 b for supporting an optical device is supported at both ends thereof against upper and lower support portions 303 a and 303 d by elastically deformable parallel spring portions 303 c and 303 e, which are in a both-end supporting state. When a side of the frame portion 303 b is pushed by exerting a pressing force F_(c) thereon so as to adjust the optical axis position in the lateral direction of the optical device, the optical axis position C₀ is displaced leftwardly, as viewed in this figure, to a position C₁, to which the optical axis position is adjusted, by a movement amount δ_(yc). The parallel spring portions 303 c and 303 e deform while these spring portions support the frame portion 303 b from above and below by maintaining a state in which these spring portions are nearly parallel to each other. Thus, a movement amount δ_(yc) in an upward or downward direction is very small. Consequently, the rotational component of a movement of the optical device held in the frame portion is very small, so that favorable adjustment is achieved.

[0068] Among the embodiments of the present invention, first, a lens frame, which is a lens barrel of a first embodiment, will be described hereinbelow.

[0069]FIG. 2 is a plan view of the lens frame that is the first embodiment. Further, FIG. 3 is a sectional view taken on line I-O-I of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the lens frame inserted in a guide frame of a lens barrel.

[0070] A lens frame 9 of this embodiment is a lens barrel, or a lens frame adapted so that the position of an optical system incorporated into optical equipment is adjustable. The lens frame 9 consists mainly of a lens frame body 1, and a lens 2, which serves as an optical member (namely, an optical device) held in the lens frame body 1, and cam followers 3, 4, and 5. This lens frame 9 is adapted so that the fine adjustment of the optical system position of the lens 2, namely, the optical axis position of the lens 2 with respect to the lens frame body 1, can be performed and lens centration can be effected.

[0071] An adjustment reference for adjustment of the optical axis position may be the outermost diameter of the lens frame body 1, and is selected according to a condition in which the lens frame is mounted in the optical equipment.

[0072] Incidentally, the “X-axis” and “Y-axis” respectively denote axes that are perpendicular to the optical axis O of the lens 2 and orthogonal to each other. The “X-axis” and “Y-axis” pass through the center P₀ in the direction of the optical axis O of the lens 2 and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions, respectively.

[0073] The lens frame body 1 is an integral member in which a connecting portion (to be described later) connects the frames 1 a, 1 b, and 1 c. A ring-like inner frame 1 a serves as a holding member for holding the lens 2, a ring-like intermediate frame 1 b serves as a first support frame disposed so that the frame 1 b surrounds the outer periphery of the inner frame 1 a and forms a gap between the frames 1 a and 1 b, and a ring like outer frame 1 c is disposed so that the frame 1 c surrounds the outer periphery of the intermediate frame 1 b and forms a gap between the frames 1 b and 1 c. Incidentally, the cam followers 3, 4, and 5 are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame 1 c is trisected.

[0074] The inner frame 1 a and the intermediate frame 1 b are connected by parallel spring portions 1 d and le, which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames 1 a and 1 b. The parallel spring portions 1 d and le are two deformable plate-like first connecting portions extending upwardly and downwardly in parallel with each other in such a way as to be laid across Y-axis, as viewed from the direction of the optical axis.

[0075] Further, the intermediate frame 1 b and the outer frame 1 c are connected by parallel spring portions 1 f and 1 g, which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames 1 b and 1 c. The parallel spring portions 1 f and 1 g are two deformable plate-like second connecting portions extending laterally in parallel with each other in such a way as to be laid across X-axis, as viewed from the direction of the optical axis.

[0076] Incidentally, it is assumed that the parallel spring portions 1 d and 1 e can elastically deform in the direction of X-axis, while the parallel spring portions 1 f and 1 g can elastically deform in the direction of Y-axis. Further, these parallel springs have shapes that are nearly symmetrical with respect to planes containing X-axis or Y-axis, so that when these parallel springs are pushed by adjustment screws through screw abutting portions in corresponding directions, the inner frame 1 a or the intermediate frame 1 b is deformed in such a way as to perform translation (parallel displacement) without being inclined to the optical axis O.

[0077] In the intermediate frame 1 b, a female screw portion 1 i is provided on X-axis. In the inner frame 1 a, a screw abutting surface 1 k is provided at a place inwardly opposed to the female screw portion 1 i. Furthermore, in the outer frame 1 c, an opening 1 h, through which an adjustment screw passes, is provided at a place outwardly opposed to the female screw portion 1 i. Similarly, in the outer frame 1 c, a female screw portion 1 j is provided on Y-axis. In the intermediate frame 1 b, a screw abutting surface lm is provided at a place inwardly opposed to the female screw 1 j.

[0078] A first adjustment screw 6 serving as a first adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion 1 i of the intermediate frame 1 b through the opening 1 h. Further, an adjustment screw 7 serving as a second adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion 1 j of the outer frame 1 c. Incidentally, the adjustment screws 6 and 7 are slotted machine screws.

[0079] Additionally, the initial lens optical axis position Z is set in such a way as to be slightly rightwardly and upwardly eccentric from the position of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position, as viewed in FIG. 2. Immediately upon completion of assembling the lens frame 9 of this embodiment, in which the optical system position is unadjusted, the lens optical axis position Z is set in such a manner as to be more than at least an eccentricity adjustment amount of the lens optical axis position, with intention of performing adjustment by maintaining a state in which the adjustment screws 6 and 7 are screwed thereinto and which end faces of the screws 6 and 7 are abutted against the screw abutting surfaces 1 k and 1 m, respectively.

[0080] Next, an optical system position adjusting operation of the lens frame 9 of the first embodiment constructed as described above will be described hereinbelow.

[0081] First, when the lens frame 9 alone is to be adjusted, the outer periphery of the outer frame 1 c of the lens frame body 1, to which the lens 2 and the cam followers 3, 4, and 5 are fitted, is held by an adjustment jig. Then, adjustment screws 6 and 7 are inserted into the female screw portions 1 i and 1 j. The adjustment screws 6 and 7 are screwed thereinto by simultaneously observing a detection signal generated by a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion provided in the adjustment jig. Thus, the adjustment of the initial lens optical is performed by causing a micro-movement of the initial lens optical axis position Z to the adjustment target position of the optical axis O. Thereafter, the adjustment screws 6 and 7 are fixed to the female screw portions 1 i and 1 j by adhesives thereby finishing the adjustment of the optical axis position Z.

[0082] Incidentally, the movement of the optical axis position Z at the time of the adjustment thereof is realized by deforming the parallel spring portions (namely, deforming portions) 1 d and 1 e in the direction of X-axis, and deforming the parallel spring portions (namely, deforming portion) 1 f and 1 g in the direction of Y-axis. This deformation is microdeformation and synthesized from bending strain, which is caused due to the bending moment of the parallel spring portion, and shearing strain, which is caused owing to the hearing force thereof. Further, if readjustment of the lens frame is not performed, such deformation may be obtained by utilizing not only elastic deformation but also plastic deformation.

[0083] Furthermore, in the case that the adjustment of the lens frame 9 is performed in a state in which the lens frame 9 is incorporated into the guide frame 8 holding the lens frame as shown in a perspective diagram of FIG. 4, the lens frame body 1, into which the lens 2 is incorporated, is mounted in the guide frame 8. The cam followers 3, 4, and 5 are inserted into guide grooves 8 a, 8 b, and 8 c, respectively and securely fixed to the outer frame 1 c. Then, the adjustment screws 6 and 7 are inserted into the female screw portions 1 i and 1 j from the outer-periphery side of the guide frame 8 through the adjustment openings 8 d and 8 e. Thereafter, the adjustment of the lens frame 9 is performed by using the aforementioned adjustment jig, similarly as in the case of performing the adjustment of the lens frame alone.

[0084] As described above, in the case of the lens frame 9 of the first embodiment, the lens frame body 1 has an integral structure and the lens frame 9 has a simple configuration. Moreover, the adjustment of the position of the lens optical axis O is attained by using two adjustment screws. This makes the adjustment thereof extremely easy to perform. Furthermore, even if the adjustment of the position of the lens optical axis O is performed, the optical axis O is prevented from being inclined. Consequently, a lens frame with high optical accuracy is obtained. Further, even if the lens frame is incorporated into the guide frame such as a cam ring, the adjustment can be effected by inserting the adjustment screws from the outer periphery of the guide frame through the adjustment opening.

[0085] Incidentally, simple-plate-spring-like connecting portions or simple cylindrical connecting portions may be employed as the connecting portions 1 d, 1 e, 1 f, or 1 g of the lens frame 9 of the aforementioned first embodiment, instead of the parallel spring like portions. Moreover, although the deformation caused in the parallel spring portions at the time of the adjustment is synthesized from the bending distortion and the shearing distortion, the adjustment may be performed by utilizing only one of the bending distortion and the shearing distortion.

[0086] Furthermore, even if the lens 2 and the lens frame body 1 are formed in such a way as to be integral with each other, the optical system position adjusting structure of the aforementioned embodiment may be applied to such a lens frame. Additionally, screws having locking functions may be employed as the adjustment screws 6 and 7. This eliminates the need for an adhesion operation performed in the aforementioned embodiment after the adjustment.

[0087] Further, although the parallel spring portions 1 d, le, 1 f and 1 g serving as the connecting portions are molded in such a manner as to be integral with the lens frame body 1, a metallic plate spring member may be formed by being insert-molded in the lens frame body 1. In this case, the adjustment amount can be set at a large value. Moreover, the lens frame body 1 is formed by being molded. However, a press-molded metallic plate may be employed as the lens frame body 1.

[0088] Next, a lens frame, which is a lens barrel that is a second embodiment of the present invention, will be described hereunder.

[0089]FIG. 5 is a plan view of the lens frame that is the second embodiment. Further, FIG. 6 is a sectional view taken on line II-O-II of FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of this lens frame in a state in which a feed screw and a guide shaft are fitted thereinto.

[0090] A lens frame 10 of this embodiment is a lens barrel, or a lens frame adapted so that the position of an optical system incorporated into optical equipment is adjustable. The lens frame 10 consists mainly of a lens frame body 11, and a prism lens 12, which serves as an optical member (namely, an optical device) held in the lens frame body 11. When this lens frame 10 is incorporated into the optical equipment, this lens frame 10 is supported by a feed screw 15 and a guide shaft 16 in such a way as to be able to proceed and retreat in the direction of the optical axis O, as illustrated in FIG. 7.

[0091] Similar to the lens frame 9, the lens frame 10 is adapted so that the fine adjustment of the optical system position of the lens 12, namely, the optical axis position of the lens 12 with respect to the lens frame body 11 can be performed. Incidentally, in the case of this embodiment, adjustment references for adjustment of the optical axis position O are the position of a female screw portion 11 k, into which the feed screw 15 is screwed, and the position of a notch portion 11 m, into which the guide shaft 16 is fitted.

[0092] Incidentally, the “X-axis” and “Y-axis” respectively denote axes that are perpendicular to the optical axis O of the lens 12 and orthogonal to each other. The “X-axis” and “Y-axis” pass through the center P₀ in the direction of the optical axis O of the lens 12 and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions.

[0093] The lens frame body 11 is an integral member in which a connecting portion (to be described later) connects the frames 11 c; 11 b, and 11 c. A rectangular inner frame 1 a serves as a holding member for holding the lens 12, a channel-like intermediate frame 11 b serves as a first support frame disposed so that the frame 11 b surrounds the outer periphery of the inner frame 1 a and forms a gap between the frames 11 a and 11 b, and a rectangular outer frame 11 c is disposed so that the frame 11 c surrounds the outer periphery of the intermediate frame 11 b and forms a gap between the frames 11 b and 11 c.

[0094] The inner frame 11 a and the intermediate frame 11 b are connected by parallel spring portions 11 d and 11 e, which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames 11 a and 11 b. The parallel spring portions 11 d and 11 e are two deformable rectangular plate-like opposed first connecting portions extending upwardly and downwardly at both sides of Y-axis.

[0095] Further, the intermediate frame 11 b and the outer frame 11 c are connected by parallel spring portions 11 f and 11 g, which are formed in such a way as to be integral with these frames 11 b and 11 c. The parallel spring portions 11 f and 11 g are two deformable opposed plate-like second connecting portions extending laterally at both sides of X-axis.

[0096] Incidentally, it is assumed that the parallel spring portions 11 d and 11 e can elastically deform in the direction of X-axis, while the parallel spring portions 11 f and 11 g can elastically deform in the direction of Y-axis. Further, these parallel springs have shapes that are nearly symmetrical with respect to a plane containing X-axis or Y-axis. The distribution of the stiffness of each of the parallel spring portions is nearly symmetrical with respect to X-axis or Y-axis.

[0097] Thus, when these parallel springs are pushed by adjustment screws through screw abutting portions in corresponding directions, the inner frame 11 a or the intermediate frame 11 b is deformed in such a way as to perform translation (parallel displacement) without being inclined to the optical axis O. Moreover, when the deformation is caused, the lens 12, which is a prism lens, is prevented from causing a rotational displacement around the optical axis O.

[0098] In the intermediate frame 11 b, a female screw portion 11 i is provided on X-axis. Similarly, in the outer frame 11 c, a female screw portion 11 j, a female screw portion 11 k into which a feed screw 15 is screwed, and a notch portion 11 m are provided on Y-axis.

[0099] A first adjustment screw 13 serving as a first adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion 11 i of the intermediate frame 11 b through the opening 11 h. Further, an adjustment screw 14 serving as a second adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion 11 j of the outer frame 11 c. Incidentally, the adjustment screws 13 and 14 are slotted machine screws.

[0100] Additionally, similar to the case of the first embodiment, the initial lens optical axis position Z is set in such a way as to be slightly rightwardly and upwardly eccentric from the position of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position, as viewed in FIG. 5.

[0101] Next, an optical system position adjusting operation of the lens frame 10 of the second embodiment constructed as described above will be described hereinbelow.

[0102] First, when the lens frame 10, in which the lens 12 is inserted thereinto, is to be adjusted, the lens frame 10 is supported by screwing the feed screw 15 into the female screw portion 11 k, and by inserting the guide shaft 16 into the notch portion 11 m, as illustrated in FIG. 7.

[0103] Then, adjustment screws 13 and 14 are inserted into the female screw portions 11 i and 11 j. Similarly as in the case of the first embodiment, the adjustment screws 13 and 14 are screwed thereinto by simultaneously observing a detection signal generated by a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion provided in the adjustment jig. Thus, the adjustment of the initial lens optical is performed by causing a micro-movement of the initial lens optical axis position Z to the adjustment target position of the optical axis O. Thereafter, the adjustment screws 13 and 14 are fixed to the female screw portions 11 i and 11 j by adhesives, thereby finishing the adjustment of the optical axis position Z.

[0104] Incidentally, the movement of the optical axis position Z at the time of the adjustment thereof is realized by deforming the parallel spring portions 11 d and 11 e in the direction of X-axis, and deforming the parallel spring portions 11 f and 11 g in the direction of Y-axis. Similarly, as in the case of the first embodiment, this deformation is synthesized from bending strain, which is caused due to the bending moment of the parallel spring portion, and shearing strain, which is caused owing to the shearing force thereof.

[0105] As described above, the lens frame 10 of the second embodiment has effects similar to those of the lens frame 9 of the first embodiment. Especially, the second embodiment can be applied to a lens frame employing the prism lens 12. Consequently, the adjustment of the position of the optical system is achieved with high optical accuracy in a state in which the rotational displacement and inclination of the prism lens 12 are not caused.

[0106] Next, a lens frame, which is a lens barrel that is a third embodiment of the present invention, will be described hereunder.

[0107]FIG. 8 is a plan view of the lens frame that is the third embodiment. Further, FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken on line III-O-III of FIG. 8. FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of this lens frame.

[0108] A lens frame 20 of this embodiment is a lens barrel, or a lens frame adapted so that the position of an optical system incorporated into optical equipment is adjustable. This lens frame 20 is applied to a case that there is sufficient room in the direction of the optical axis. This lens frame 20 consists mainly of a lens frame body 21, a lens 22, which serves as an optical member (namely, an optical device) held in the lens frame body 21, and cam followers 23, 24, and 25. This lens frame 20 is adapted so that the fine adjustment of the optical system position of the lens 22, namely, the movement of the optical axis position Z of the lens 22 with respect to the lens frame body 21 to the lens optical axis position O, which is an adjustment target position, can be performed. Incidentally, an adjustment reference for adjustment of the optical axis position is an outside-diameter portion of the lens frame body 21.

[0109] Incidentally, the “X-axis” and “Y-axis” respectively denote axes that are perpendicular to the optical axis O of the lens 22 and orthogonal to each other. The “X-axis” and “Y-axis” pass through the center P₀ in the direction of the optical axis of the lens 22 and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions.

[0110] The lens frame body 21 is an integral member in which a connecting portion (to be described later) connects frames 21 a, 21 b, and 21 c. A ring-like inner frame 21 a serves as a holding member for holding the lens 22, a ring-like intermediate frame 21 b serves as a first support frame disposed so that the frame 21 b surrounds the outer periphery of the inner frame 21 a and forms a gap between the frames 21 a and 21 b, and a ring like outer frame 21 c is disposed so that the frame 21 c surrounds the outer periphery of the intermediate frame 21 b and forms a gap between the frames 21 b and 21 c. Incidentally, the cam followers 23, 24, and 25 are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame 21 c is trisected.

[0111] The intermediate frame 21 b and the outer frame 21 c are connected by parallel spring portions 21 d and 21 e, which are formed in such a way as to be integral with these frames 21 b and 21 c, respectively. The parallel spring portions 21 f and 21 g are two laterally deformable plate-like first connecting portions extending rearwardly along a plane containing the optical axis O and X-axis. Incidentally, the spring portion 21 d is divided into two parts arranged in an upward or downward direction.

[0112] Further, the inner frame 21 a and the intermediate frame 21 b are connected by parallel spring portions 21 f and 21 g, which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames 21 a and 21 b. The parallel spring portions 21 f and 21 g are two deformable plate-like second connecting portions extending backwardly along a plane containing the optical axis O and Y-axis. Incidentally, it is assumed that the parallel spring portions 21 d and 21 e can elastically deform in the direction of X-axis, while the parallel spring portions 21 f and 21 g can elastically deform in the direction of Y-axis. Further, these parallel springs are formed in such a way as to be relatively elongated in a direction in which these spring portions extend. Thus, when the inner frame 21 a is pushed by the adjustment screws (to be described later) in the direction of X-axis or Y-axis, the spring portions deform so that the inner frame 21 a performs translation (parallel displacement) without being inclined to the optical axis O.

[0113] In the outer frame 21 c, a female screw portion 21 i is provided on X-axis. A female screw portion 21 j is provided on Y-axis. A first adjustment screw 26 serving as a first adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion 21 i. Further, an adjustment screw 27 serving as a second adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion 21 j. Incidentally, the adjustment screws 26 and 27 are slotted machine screws.

[0114] Additionally, similar to the case of the first embodiment, in the case of the lens frame 20 of this embodiment, the initial lens optical axis position Z is set in such a way as to be slightly rightwardly and upwardly eccentric from the position of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position, as viewed in FIG. 8. The reason for setting the eccentricity amount in such a manner, similar to that in the case of the first embodiment, is that the adjustment should be performed in a state in which the adjustment screws are abutted against the abutting portion.

[0115] Next, an optical system position adjusting operation of the lens frame 20 of the third embodiment constructed as described above will be described hereinbelow.

[0116] First, the outer periphery of the outer frame 21 c of the lens frame body 21, to which the lenses 22 and the cam followers 23, 24, and 25 are fitted, is held by an adjustment jig. Then, adjustment screws 26 and 27 are inserted into the female screw portions 21 i and 21 j, respectively. Subsequently, the adjustment screws 26 and 27 are screwed thereinto by simultaneously observing a detection signal generated by a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion provided in the adjustment jig. Thus, the adjustment of the initial lens optical is performed by causing a micro-movement of the initial lens optical axis position Z to the adjustment target position of the optical axis O. Thereafter, the adjustment screws 26 and 27 are fixed to the female screw portions 21 i and 21 j by adhesives, thereby finishing the adjustment of the optical axis position Z.

[0117] As described above, the lens frame 20 of the third embodiment has advantageous effects similar to those of the first embodiment. Especially, the spring portion serving as a connecting portion is relatively elongated in a direction, in which the spring portion extends. Thus, the adjustment is accurately achieved in a wide range of the position of the lens optical axis O.

[0118] Next, a lens frame, which is a lens barrel that is a fourth embodiment of the present invention, will be described hereunder.

[0119]FIG. 11 is a plan view of the lens frame that is the fourth embodiment. Further, FIG. 12 is a sectional view taken on line IV-O-IV of FIG. 11. FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of this lens frame.

[0120] A lens frame 30 of this embodiment is a lens barrel, or a lens frame adapted so that the position of an optical system incorporated into optical equipment is adjustable. This lens frame 30 consists mainly of a lens frame body 31, a lens 32, which serves as an optical member (namely, an optical device) held in the lens frame body 31, and cam followers 33, 34, and 35. This lens frame 30 is adapted so that the adjustment of the optical system position of the lens 32, namely, the adjustment of the movement of the optical axis position Z of the lens 32 with respect to an adjustment reference (for example, an outside-diameter portion of the outer frame 31 c) for the lens frame body 31 to the lens optical axis position O, which is an adjustment target position, can be performed.

[0121] Incidentally, the “X-axis” and “Y-axis” respectively denote axes that are perpendicular to the optical axis O of the lens 32 and orthogonal to each other. The “X-axis” and “Y-axis” pass through the center P₀ in the direction of the optical axis of the lens 32 and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions.

[0122] The lens frame body 31 is an integral member in which a connecting portion (to be described later) connects the frames 31 a, 31 b, and 31 c. A ring-like inner frame 31 a serves as a holding member for holding the lens 32, a ring-like intermediate frame 31 b serves as a first support frame disposed so that the frame 31 b surrounds the outer periphery of the inner frame 31 a and forms a gap between the frames 31 a and 31 b, and a ring like outer frame 31 c is disposed so that the frame 31 c surrounds the outer periphery of the intermediate frame 31 b and forms a gap between the frames 31 b and 31 c. Incidentally, the cam followers 33, 34, and 35 are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame 31 c is trisected.

[0123] The inner frame 31 a and the intermediate frame 31 b are connected by parallel spring portions 31 d and 31 e, which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames 31 a and 31 b and 31 c. The parallel spring portions 31 d and 31 e are deformable bending band-like first connecting portions that extend from laterally arranged positions on X-axis and on the front side of the inner frame 31 a through the gap between the frames 31 a and 31 b and are connected to the rear face of the intermediate frame 31 b.

[0124] Further, the intermediate frame 31 b and the outer frame 31 c are connected by parallel spring portions 31 f and 31 g, which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames 31 b and 31 c. The parallel spring portions 31 f and 31 g are two deformable band-like second connecting portions that extend from upwardly or downwardly arranged positions on Y-axis and on the front side of the intermediate frame 31 b through the gap between the frames 31 b and 31 c and are connected to the back face of the outer frame 31 c.

[0125] Incidentally, it is assumed that the parallel spring portions 31 d and 31 e can elastically deform in the direction of X-axis, while the parallel spring portions 31 f and 31 g can elastically deform in the direction of Y-axis. Further, the parallel springs 31 d, 31 e and 31 f, 31 g have shapes that are symmetrical with respect to a plane containing X-axis or Y-axis, respectively. The parallel spring portions are formed so that when the abutting parts provided on the spring portions are pushed by the adjustment screws (to be described later) in the corresponding directions, the inner frame 31 a or the intermediate frame 31 b performs translation (parallel displacement) without being inclined to the optical axis O.

[0126] In the intermediate frame 31 b, a female screw portion 31 i is provided on X-axis. In the outer frame 31 c, an adjustment opening 31 h is provided at a place opposed to the position of the female screw portion. Further, in the outer frame 31 c, a female screw portion 31 j is provided on Y-axis.

[0127] An adjustment screw 36 serving as a first adjusting member being capable of abutting against the spring portion 31 d is screwed into the female screw portion 31 i. Further, an adjustment screw 37 serving as a second adjusting member capable of abutting against the spring portion 31 f is screwed into the female screw portion 31 j. Incidentally, the adjustment screws 36 and 37 are slotted machine screws.

[0128] In the case of the lens frame 30 of this embodiment, similar to the case of the first embodiment, the initial lens optical axis position Z is set in such a way as to be slightly rightwardly and upwardly eccentric from the position of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position, as viewed in FIG. 11. The reason for setting such an eccentricity amount in such a manner, similar to that in the case of the first embodiment, is that the adjustment should be performed in a state in which the adjustment screws are abutted against the abutting portion.

[0129] Next, an optical system position adjusting operation of the lens frame 30 of the fourth embodiment constructed as described above will be described hereinbelow.

[0130] First, the outer periphery of the outer frame 31 c of the lens frame body 31, to which the lenses 32 and the cam followers 33, 34, and 35 are fitted, is held by an adjustment jig. Then, adjustment screws 36 and 37 are inserted into the female screw portions 31 i and 31 j. Subsequently, the adjustment screws 36 and 37 are screwed thereinto by simultaneously observing a detection signal generated by a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion provided in the adjustment jig. Thus, the adjustment of the initial lens optical is performed by causing a micro-movement of the initial lens optical axis position Z to the adjustment target position of the optical axis O. Thereafter, the adjustment screws 36 and 37 are fixed to the female screw portions 31 i and 31 j by adhesives, thereby finishing the adjustment of the optical axis position Z. Incidentally, the adjustment may be performed by incorporating the lens frame 30 into the lens barrel portion of the optical equipment.

[0131] As described above, the lens frame 30 of the fourth embodiment has advantageous effects similar to those of the lens frame 9 of the first embodiment. Especially, each of the spring portions serving as connecting portions employs a shape that is easily deformed. Thus, the adjustment of the optical system is accurately achieved in a wide range of the position of the lens optical axis O.

[0132] As described above, according to the first to fourth embodiments of the present invention, there are provided lens frames in which the optical system position adjustment of the optical members (namely, the centering thereof) is easily performed.

[0133] Next, a lens frame, which is a lens barrel of a fifth embodiment of the present invention, will be described hereinbelow.

[0134]FIG. 14 is a plan view of the lens frame that is the fifth embodiment. Further, FIG. 15 is a sectional view taken on line V-O-V of FIG. 14. FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of this lens frame.

[0135] A lens frame 40 of this embodiment is a lens barrel, or a lens frame adapted so that the posture of an optical system incorporated into optical equipment is adjustable. Further, the lens frame 40 consists mainly of a lens frame body 41, a lens 42 which serves as an optical member (namely, an optical device) held in the lens frame body 41, and cam followers 43, 44, and 45 securely fixed on the periphery of the lens frame 41.

[0136] This lens frame 40 is adapted so that the fine adjustment of the optical system posture of the lens 42, namely, the inclination of the optical axis O of the lens 42 with respect to the lens frame body 41, can be performed. Incidentally, in the case of this embodiment, an adjustment reference for adjustment of the optical axis posture is the outermost diameter (namely, the outside-diameter portion of the outer frame 41 c (to be described later)) of the lens frame body 41, and is selected according to a condition in which the lens frame is mounted in the optical equipment.

[0137] Incidentally, the “X-axis” and “Y-axis” respectively denote axes that are perpendicular to the optical axis O of the lens 42 and orthogonal to each other. The “X-axis” and “Y-axis” pass through the center P₀ in the direction of the optical axis of the lens 42 and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions. Further, a point of intersection between X-axis and Y-axis is set to be a point of intersection among the axes of cylindrical portions 41 d, 41 e, 41 f, and 41 g, and denoted by “P₀”. Moreover, it is supposed that the surface side of the lens frame 40 on FIG. 14 (which, as viewed in FIG. 15, corresponds to the left-hand side thereof) is the “front side” thereof, and that the back side of the lens frame 40 of FIG. 14 (which, as viewed in FIG. 15, corresponds to the right-hand side thereof) is the “rear side” thereof.

[0138] The lens frame body 41 is an integral member in which a connecting portion (to be described later) connects the frames 41 a, 41 b, and 41 c. A ring-like inner frame 41 a serves as a holding member for holding the lens 42, a ring-like intermediate frame 41 b serves as a first support frame disposed so that the frame 41 b surrounds the outer periphery of the inner frame 41 a and forms a gap between the frames 41 a and 41 b, and a ring like outer frame 41 c is disposed so that the frame 41 c surrounds the outer periphery of the intermediate frame 41 b and forms a gap between the frames 41 b and 41 c. Incidentally, the cam followers 43, 44, and 45 are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame 41 c is trisected.

[0139] The inner frame 41 a and the intermediate frame 41 b are connected by cylindrical portions 41 d and 41 e, which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames 41 a and 41 b. Cylindrical portions 41 d and 41 e are torsionally deformable first connecting portions extending upwardly and downwardly on Y-axis.

[0140] Further, the intermediate frame 41 b and the outer frame 41 c are connected by cylindrical portions 41 f and 41 g, which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames 41 b and 41 c. Cylindrical portions are torsionally deformable second connecting portions extending laterally on X-axis. Incidentally, the cylindrical portions 41 d, 41 e and 41 f, 41 g are disposed along Y-axis or X-axis, respectively, in such a manner as to be symmetric with the optical axis center.

[0141] Further, in the intermediate frame 41 b, a female screw portion 41 k and a notch portion 41 n are provided on the right-hand side, as viewed in FIG. 14, and arranged in a direction parallel to the optical axis O and across X-axis. Furthermore, in the outer frame 41 c, a female screw portion 41 m and a notch portion 41 p are provided on the upper side of the frame, as viewed in this figure, and arranged in a direction parallel to the optical axis O and across Y-axis. Moreover, a notch portion 41 q (which is necessary for forming the lens frame 40) is provided in an outwardly radial direction of the notch portion 41 n.

[0142] A first adjustment screw 46 serving as a first adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion 41 k of the intermediate frame 41 b through the opening 41 h. Further, an adjustment screw 47 serving as a second adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion 41 m of the outer frame 41 c. Incidentally, the adjustment screws 46 and 47 are slotted machine screws.

[0143] Furthermore, the inner frame 41 a is provided with a plate-like projection portion 41 i, which serves as a pressed portion projecting in the direction of X-axis to a place opposed to the female screw portion 41 k of the intermediate frame 41 b, in a right-hand side part of the outer peripheral portion thereof. Similarly, the intermediate frame 41 b is provided with a plate-like projection portion 41 j, which serves as a pressed portion projecting in the direction of Y-axis to a place opposed to the female screw portion 41 m of the outer frame 41 c and upwardly from the outer peripheral portion thereof.

[0144] The plate-like projection portions 41 i and 41 j can be pressed by the adjustment screws 46 and 47 screwed from a direction parallel to the optical axis O. When the plate-like projection portions 41 i and 41 j are pressed in the direction of the optical axis O, a direction (or inclination) a indicating the optical system position (or posture) of the optical axis of the lens 22 changes.

[0145] Incidentally, as viewed in FIG. 16, an initial direction α_(z) of the optical axis of the lens 42 (namely, the inclination thereof in an initial state) is set so that the direction of the point of intersection of X′-axis and Y′-axis is deviated from the direction α₀ (namely, the degree of inclination is 0) of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position. The X′-intercept is X₁′, which is negative, and Y′-intercept is Y₁′, which is negative, on X′Y′-plane. Additionally, X′-axis and Y′-axis are obtained by translation of X-axis and Y-axis along the optical axis O, respectively.

[0146] Further, in this figure, an angle θ_(R) formed between two lateral edges of a quadrangular prism having a lateral edge extending in the initial direction α_(z) of the optical axis indicates an adjustment range (or adjustment limit). When the adjustment is performed within this adjustment range θ_(R), a state, in which the end faces of the screwed adjustment screws 46 and 47 are abutted against the plate-like projection portions 41 i and 41 j, is maintained. Moreover, the cylindrical portions 41 d, 41 e, 41 f and 41 g deform within a natural range. Consequently, high-accuracy adjustment can be achieved.

[0147] Next, an optical system inclination adjusting operation of the lens frame 40 of the fifth embodiment constructed as described above will be described hereinbelow.

[0148] First, when the lens frame 40 alone is to be adjusted, the outer periphery of the outer frame 41 c of the lens frame body 41, to which the lens 42 and the cam followers 43, 44, and 45 are fitted, is held by an adjustment jig. Then, adjustment screws 46 and 47 are inserted into the female screw portions 41 k and 41 m. The adjustment screws 46 and 47 are screwed thereinto from a direction parallel to the direction of the optical axis by simultaneously observing a detection signal generated by a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion provided in the adjustment jig. Thus, the cylindrical portions 41 d, 41 e, 41 f, and 41 g are deformed so that the optical axis is swung. Consequently, the initial lens optical axis direction α_(z) is adjusted and changed into the adjustment target direction α₀ of the optical axis O. During the adjustment, the cylindrical portions 41 d, 41 e, or 41 f, 41 g are simply distorted, and the center P₀ hardly moves, because the cylindrical portions are disposed on Y-axis and X-axis in a symmetrical manner, as described above.

[0149] Upon completion of the adjustment, the adjustment screws 46 and 47 are fixed to the female screw portions 41 i and 41 j by adhesives, thereby finishing the adjustment.

[0150] Furthermore, as illustrated in the exploded perspective diagram of FIG. 17, in the case that the adjustment of the lens frame 40 is performed in a state in which the frame 40 is incorporated into a rectilinear cam ring 48 or a rotational cam ring 49, the lens frame body 41, into which the lens 42 is incorporated, is mounted in the rectilinear cam ring 48. Moreover, the cam followers 43, 44, and 45 are inserted into guide grooves 48 a, 48 b, and 48 c, respectively. Thus, the lens frame 40 is securely fixed to the outer frame 41 c. Furthermore, the cam followers 43, 44, and 45 are fitted into the cam grooves 49 a, 49 b, and 49 c, respectively, so that the rotational cam ring 49 is mounted in the rectilinear cam ring 48. In such a state, the adjustment is performed by regulating the screwing depth of the adjustment screws 46 and 47 to be screwed from the direction parallel to the optical axis O, similarly as in the case of adjusting the aforementioned lens frame singly.

[0151] As described above, in the case of the lens frame 40 of the fifth embodiment, the lens frame body 41 has an integral structure, and thus has a simple configuration. Moreover, the adjustment of the inclination of the lens optical axis direction a is performed by screwing two adjustment screws 46 and 47 from the direction of the optical axis O. Therefore, needless to say, when the single lens frame is used, and even in the case when a cam ring mounting is incorporated, the adjustment is easily achieved without providing adjustment openings therein. In addition, the cylindrical portions 41 d, 41 e, 41 f and 41 g deform at the time of the adjustment and are disposed on X-axis or Y-axis, so that even when the adjustment of the inclination of the optical axis a is performed, the position of the cylindrical portions hardly change. Consequently, a high-optical-accuracy lens frame is obtained.

[0152] Incidentally, in the case of the lens frame 40 of this embodiment, the cylindrical portions 41 d, 41 e or 41 f, 41 g mainly cause elastic distortion around X-axis or Y-axis during the adjustment. However, if readjustment of the lens frame is not performed, the cylindrical portions may utilize not only elastic deformation but also plastic deformation.

[0153] Furthermore, prism-like portions placed along Y-axis or X-axis may be employed instead of the cylindrical portions 41 d, 41 e, 41 f, and 41 g. Further, the lens frame body 41 does not always have an integral structure. For instance, the lens frame may employ a structure in which the inner frame 41 a, 41 b, and 41 c are formed in such a way as to be separated by the cylindrical portions serving as the connecting portions, and each of the cylindrical portions is fitted into a corresponding frame element. In this case, there is the necessity for the conditions in which the adjustment screws are provided in the adjustment jig instead of the lens frame, and that the fitting portions of the cylindrical portions are bonded and fixed after the adjustment.

[0154] Further, even if the lens 42 and the lens frame body 41 are formed in such a way as to be integral with each other, the optical system posture adjusting structure of the aforementioned embodiment may be applied to such a lens frame. Additionally, screws having locking functions may be employed as the adjustment screws 46 and 47. This eliminates the need for an adhesion operation performed in the aforementioned embodiment after the adjustment.

[0155] Next, a lens frame, which is a lens barrel of a sixth embodiment of the present invention, will be described hereinbelow.

[0156]FIG. 18 is a plan view of the lens frame that is the sixth embodiment. Further, FIG. 19 is a sectional view taken on line VI-O-VI of FIG. 18. FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of this lens frame.

[0157] A lens frame 50 of this embodiment is a lens barrel, or a lens frame adapted so that the posture of an optical system incorporated into optical equipment is adjustable. Further, the lens frame 50 consists mainly of a lens frame body 51, a lens 52, which serves as an optical member (namely, an optical device) held in the lens frame body 51, and cam followers 53, 54, and 55 securely fixed on the outer periphery of the lens frame 51.

[0158] Similarly as in the case of the fifth embodiment, this lens frame 50 is adapted so that the fine adjustment of the optical system posture of the lens 52, namely, the inclination of the optical axis O of the lens 52 with respect to the lens frame body 51 can be performed.

[0159] Incidentally, similarly as in the case of the fifth embodiment, it is supposed in this embodiment that “X-axis” and “Y-axis” respectively denote axes that are perpendicular to the optical axis O of the lens 52 and orthogonal to each other. The “X-axis” and “Y-axis” pass through the center P₀ in the direction of the optical axis of the lens 52 and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions. Further, a point of intersection between X-axis and Y-axis is set to be a point of intersection among the axes of cylindrical portions 51 d, 51 e, 51 f, and 51 g, and denoted by “P₀”. Moreover, it is assumed that the surface side of the lens frame 50 of FIG. 18 (which, as viewed in FIG. 19, corresponds to the left-hand side thereof) is the “front side” thereof, and that the back side of the lens frame 50 of FIG. 18 (which, as viewed in FIG. 19, corresponds to the right-hand side thereof) is the “rear side” thereof.

[0160] The lens frame body 51 is an integral member in which a connecting portion (to be described later) connects the frames 51 a, 51 b, and 51 c. A ring-like inner frame 51 a serves as a holding member for holding the lens 52, a ring-like intermediate frame 51 b serves as a first support frame disposed so that the frame 51 b surrounds the outer periphery of the inner frame 51 a and forms a gap between the frames 51 a and 51 b, and a ring like outer frame 51 c is disposed so that the frame 51 c surrounds the outer periphery of the intermediate frame 51 b and forms a gap between the frames 51 b and 51 c. Incidentally, the cam followers 53, 54, and 55 are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame 51 c is trisected.

[0161] Similarly as in the case of the fifth embodiment, the inner frame 51 a and the intermediate frame 51 b are connected by cylindrical portions 51 d and 51 e, which are formed in such a way as to be integral with these frames 51 a and 51 b. The cylindrical portions 51 d and 51 e are torsionally deformable first connecting portions extending upwardly and downwardly on Y-axis.

[0162] Further, the intermediate frame 51 b and the outer frame 51 c are connected by cylindrical portions 51 f and 51 g, which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames 51 b and 51 c. The cylindrical portions 51 f and 51 g are torsionally deformable second connecting portions extending laterally on X-axis. Incidentally, the cylindrical portions 51 d, 51 e and 51 f, 51 g are disposed on Y-axis or X-axis, respectively, in such a manner as to be symmetric with the optical axis center.

[0163] Further, in the intermediate frame 51 b, a female screw portion 51 k is provided on the right-hand part of the outer periphery, as viewed in FIG. 18, and arranged along X-axis. Furthermore, in the outer frame 51 c, a female screw portion 51 m is provided on the upper-side outer periphery of the frame, as viewed in this figure, and arranged along Y-axis. Incidentally, a notch portion 51 n, through which an adjustment screw passes, is provided in a portion opposed to the female screw portion 51 k of the outer frame 51 c.

[0164] An adjustment screw 56 serving as a first adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion 51 k of the intermediate frame 51 b through the opening 51 n. Further, an adjustment screw 57 serving as a second adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion 51 m of the outer frame 51 c. Incidentally, the adjustment screws 56 and 57 are slotted machine screws.

[0165] Furthermore, the inner frame 51 a is provided with a projection portion 51 i, which serves as a pressed portion projecting in the direction of X-axis to a place opposed to the female screw portion 51 k of the intermediate frame 51 b. The projection portion 51 i has a rear-side inclined surface in the outward and forward direction of X-axis, in a right-hand side part of the outer peripheral portion thereof. Similarly, the intermediate frame 51 b is provided with a projection portion 51 j, which serves as a pressed portion projecting in the direction of Y-axis to a place opposed to the female screw portion 51 m of the outer frame 51 c and upwardly from the outer peripheral portion thereof. The projection portion 51 j has a front-side inclined surface inclined in the outward and rearward direction of Y-axis.

[0166] The inclined surface of the inclined projection portions 51 i and 51 j can be pressed by the tip ends of the adjustment screws 56 and 57 screwed from the directions of X-axis and Y-axis, respectively. When the projection portions 51 i and 51 j are pressed, the intermediate frame 51 b and the outer frame 51 c are rotated around Y-axis and X-axis by minute angles, respectively, through the inclined surfaces thereof. Thus, the optical axis direction a of the lens 52 changes.

[0167] Incidentally, an initial direction α_(z) of the optical axis of the lens 52 (namely, the inclination thereof in an initial state) is set so that the direction of the point of intersection of X′-axis and Y′-axis is deviated from the direction α₀ (namely, the degree of inclination is 0°) of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position, as viewed in FIG. 20, and that X′-intercept is X₁′, which is positive, and Y₁-intercept is Y₁′, which is negative, on X′Y′-plane.

[0168] Further, in this figure, an angle θ_(R) formed between two lateral edges of a quadrangular prism having a lateral edge extending in the initial direction α_(z) of the optical axis indicates an adjustment range. When the adjustment is performed within this adjustment range θ_(R), a state in which the end faces of the screwed adjustment screws 56 and 57 are abutted against the plate-like projection portions 51 i and 51 j, respectively, is maintained. Moreover, the cylindrical portions 51 d, 51 e, 51 f, and 51 g deform within a natural ranges Consequently, high-accuracy adjustment can be attained.

[0169] Next, an optical system inclination adjusting operation of the lens frame 50 of the sixth embodiment constructed as described above will be described hereinbelow.

[0170] Although the adjusting operation of the lens frame 50 of this embodiment is nearly the same as of the lens frame of the fifth embodiment, the former adjusting operation differs from the latter adjusting operation in the direction in which the adjustment screws 56 and 57 are inserted and screwed into the lens frame 50. That is, when the lens frame 50 alone is adjusted the adjustment screws 56 and 57 are screwed thereinto from the directions of X-axis and Y-axis, respectively. Further, the optical axis O is swung by controlling the screwing depth of each of the adjustment screws 56 and 57. Thus, the initial lens optical axis direction (or inclination) α_(z) is adjusted to tile adjustment target direction α₀ (namely, the degree of the optical axis angle is 0) of the optical axis O. During the adjustment, the center P_(O) does not move for the same reason as described in the description of the fifth embodiment.

[0171]FIG. 21 illustrates a state in which the lens frame 50 is incorporated into a rectilinear cam ring 58, and further into a rotational cam ring 59. When the adjustment of the lens frame 50 is performed in this incorporated state, the adjustment screws 56 and 57 are screwed from the directions D₃ and D₄ along X-axis and Y-axis through adjustment openings 59 d, 58 d, and 59 e, 58 e of the cam rings 58 and 59, respectively. Then, the screwing depth of each of the screws 56 and 57 is controlled. Thereafter, an operation similar to that in the case of adjusting the lens frame alone is performed.

[0172] The lens frame 50 of the sixth embodiment obtains advantageous effects similar to those of the lens frame 40 of the fifth embodiment. Moreover, the lens frame 50 can perform the adjustment of the inclination of the optical axis O of the lens 52 from a direction orthogonal to the optical axis O, and thus has another advantageous effect in that the adjustment is more easily performed in a state in which the lens frame 50 is incorporated into the cam ring.

[0173] As described above, each of the lens frames of the fifth and sixth embodiments has a simple structure. Moreover, the adjustment of the optical system posture can be performed by swinging the optical axis of each of the optical members, such as the lens and the prism. In the case of these lens frames, even when the optical axis is swung, there is extremely small change in position of the optical axis center. Consequently, the posture can be adjusted with good accuracy.

[0174] Next, a lens frame, which is a lens barrel of a seventh embodiment of the present invention, will be described hereinbelow.

[0175]FIG. 22 is a plan view of the lens frame that is this embodiment. Further, FIGS. 23(A) and 23(B) are a sectional view taken on line VII-O-VII of FIG. 22 and a sectional view taken on line VIII-O-VIII. FIG. 24 is a perspective view of this lens frame.

[0176] A lens frame 60 of this embodiment is a lens barrel, or a lens frame adapted so that the position and posture of an optical system incorporated into optical equipment is adjustable. Further, the lens frame 60 consists mainly of a lens frame body 61, a lens 62, which serves as an optical member (namely, an optical device) held in the lens frame body 61, cam followers 63 a, 63 b, and 63 c securely fixed on the periphery of the lens frame 61, and adjustment screws 65, 66, 67, and 68, which serve as adjusting members for adjustment of the position and posture of the optical system.

[0177] This lens frame 60 is adapted so that the adjustment for correcting variation in the optical axis when the lens 62 is mounted in the lens frame body 61, namely, the position and posture of the optical system of the lens 62, that is, both of the adjustment of the optical axis position in a direction orthogonal to the lens optical axis O and the adjustment of the direction (or inclination) of the optical axis O of the lens 62, can be performed. Incidentally, in the case of this embodiment, an adjustment reference for adjustment of the optical axis posture is, for example, the outside-diameter portion of the lens frame body 61, and is selected according to a condition in which the lens frame 60 is mounted in the optical equipment.

[0178] Incidentally, the “X-axis” and “Y-axis” respectively denote axes that are perpendicular to the optical axis O of the lens 62 and orthogonal to each other and which correspond to horizontal and vertical directions. Further, a point of intersection between X-axis and Y-axis is denoted by “P₀”, which is nearly equivalent to a point of intersection among the axes of cylindrical portions 61 d, 61 e, 61 f, and 61 g. However, strictly speaking, because of structural necessity, the axis center of each of the cylindrical portions 61 f and 61 g differs slightly from those in the direction of the optical axis of the cylindrical portions 61 d and 61 e. Furthermore, it is assumed that the surface side of the lens frame 60 of FIG. 22, (which, as viewed in FIG. 23(A), corresponds to the left-hand side thereof) is the “front side” thereof, and that the back side of the lens frame 60 of FIG. 22 (which, as viewed in FIG. 23(A), corresponds to the right-hand side thereof) is the “rear side” thereof.

[0179] The lens frame body 61 is an integral member in which a connecting portion (to be described later) connects the frame portions 61 a, 61 b, and 61 c. A ring-like inner frame 61 a serves as a holding member (namely, a first frame portion) for holding the lens 62, a ring-like intermediate frame 61 b serves as a first support frame (namely, a second frame portion) disposed so that the frame 61 b surrounds the outer periphery of the inner frame 61 a and forms a gap between the frames 61 a and 61 b, and a ring like outer frame 61 c (namely, a third frame portion) serves as a second support frame disposed so that the frame 61 c surrounds the outer periphery of the intermediate frame 61 b and forms a gap between the frames 61 b and 61 c. Incidentally, the cam followers 63 a, 63 b, and 63 c are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame 61 c is trisected.

[0180] The inner frame 61 a and the intermediate frame 61 b are connected by cylindrical portions 61 f and 61 g, which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames 61 a and 61 b. Cylindrical portions 61 f and 61 g are elastically deformable first connecting portions (namely, a translation mechanism and an inclination adjusting mechanism) extending across the optical axis and extending laterally on X₁-axis (as viewed in FIG. 23(B)) which is extremely close and parallel to X-axis. Incidentally, a point of intersection between X₁-axis and the optical axis O is denoted by “P₁”.

[0181] Further, the intermediate frame 61 b and the outer frame 61 c are connected by cylindrical portions 61 d and 61 e, which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames 61 b and 61 c. Cylindrical portions 61 d and 61 e are torsionally deformable second connecting portions (namely, a translation mechanism and an inclination adjusting mechanism) extending upwardly and downwardly on Y-axis.

[0182] Further, in the intermediate frame 61 b, female screw portions 61 n and 61 k are provided in such a manner as to be opposed to each other and extend along Y₁-axis (see FIG. 23(A)), which is orthogonal to the X₁-axis. The X₁-axis is the axis center of each of the cylindrical portions 61 f and 61 g, and passes through the point of intersection P₁.

[0183] Incidentally, to avoid the interference between the female screw portions 61 n and 61 k and the cylinder portions 61 d and 61 e, Y₁-axis, which is the axis center of each of the female screw portions 61 n and 61 k, and X₁-axis, which is orthogonal thereto, are slightly deviated in the direction of the optical axis O from Y-axis and X-axis, respectively, as described above.

[0184] In the outer frame 61 c, female screw portions 61 m and 61 j are provided in such a manner as to extend along and to be opposed to X-axis. Moreover, notch portions 61 q and 61 p, through which adjustment screws 66 and 68 pass, are provided at places to be opposed to the female screw portions 61 k and 61 n of the intermediate frame 61 b.

[0185] First adjustment screws 66 and 68 serving as first adjusting members are screwed into the female screw portions 61 k and 61 n of the intermediate frame 61 b, respectively. Further, adjustment screws 65 and 67 serving as second adjusting members are screwed into the female screw portions 61 j and 61 m of the outer frame 61 c. Incidentally, the adjustment screws 65 and 66 are flat-point-like slotted machine screws, and the adjustment screws 67 and 68 are slotted machine screws each having a conical end.

[0186] Furthermore, the inner frame 61 a is provided with an inclined projection portion 61 i, which serves as an inclination adjusting mechanism projecting to a place opposed to the female screw portion 61 n of an upper part of the outer peripheral portion of the inner frame 61 a and inclining outwardly, radially and backwardly on Y₁-axis, in a right-hand side part of the outer peripheral portion thereof. Further, similarly, the intermediate frame 61 b is provided with an inclined projection portion 61 h, which serves as an inclined portion outwardly that projects to a place opposed to the female screw portion 61 m of the outer frame 61 c and upwardly from the outer peripheral portion thereof, and that extends on the X-axis and inclines backwardly and outwardly.

[0187] Additionally, the initial lens optical axis position Pa is set (see FIG. 22) in such a way as to be slightly rightwardly and downwardly eccentric from the position P₀ of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position. Further, an initial lens optical axis direction Da (namely, the inclination of the optical axis) inclines rightwardly and downwardly to the optical axis direction D₀ (that is, the angle of inclination of the optical axis is 0), which is a target direction of adjustment, at the light incidence side (see a perspective view of FIG. 24). The reason for setting such predetermined initial eccentricity and inclination at predetermined values is to perform adjustment by maintaining a state in which the adjustment screws 65, 66, 67 and 68 are screwed thereinto and which end faces of these screws are abutted against the frame outside-diameter surface and the inclined projection portion 61 h and 61 i.

[0188] Next, optical system position and posture adjusting operations of the lens frame 60 of the seventh embodiment constructed as described above will be described hereinbelow.

[0189] Such adjustment operations are performed by using an adjustment jig consisting of, for example, a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion. Further, the point light source portion is set at a light incidence side, while the CCD portion is set at a light output side. Then, the adjustment is performed by detecting the inclination and position of the optical axis at the light output side according to optical axis detection signals outputted from the CCD portion.

[0190] In the case that the adjustment is performed only by the lens frame 60, the adjustment screws 65, 66, 67, and 68 are screwed in the female screw portions. Then, the screwing depth of each of these screws is controlled. Subsequently, the inclination of the optical axis is adjusted according to the detection outputs of the CCD portions. Then, the position of the optical axis is adjusted.

[0191] First, the adjustment screw 68 is screwed in the female screw portion 61 n of the intermediate frame 61 b. Then, the inclined surface of the inclined projection portion 61 i of the inner frame 61 a is pushed by the tip end of the adjustment screw, causing the cylindrical portions 61 f and 61 g elastically to deform. Further, the inner frame 61 a is inclined clockwise (as viewed from the right-hand direction in FIG. 24) to a direction (+θ_(x)).

[0192] Moreover, the adjustment screw 67 is screwed in the female screw portion 61 m of the outer frame 61 c. Then, the inclined surface of the inclined projection portion 61 h of the intermediate frame 61 b is pushed by the tip end of the adjustment screw, the cylindrical portions 61 d and 61 e elastically deform owing to distortion. Furthermore, the intermediate frame 61 b is inclined clockwise (as viewed from above in FIG. 24) to a direction (+θ_(y)). Thus, the direction or inclination of the optical axis is adjusted to the target direction D₀ of the optical axis by inclining the frame portion in both the directions.

[0193] Subsequently, the adjustment screw 66 is screwed in the female screw portion 61 k of the intermediate frame 61 b. Thereafter, when a part placed on Y₁-axis in a lower portion of the inner frame 61 a is pressed, the cylindrical portions 61 f and 61 g cause shearing or bending elastic distortion so that the inner frame 61 a and the lens 62 perform translation (parallel displacement) upwardly along Y₁-axis without being inclined.

[0194] Then, the adjustment screw 65 is screwed in the female spring portion 61 j of the outer frame 61 c. Thereafter, when an upper right part of the outer peripheral portion of the intermediate frame 61 b, which is placed on X-axis, is pushed, the cylindrical portions 61 d and 61 e cause shearing or bending elastic distortion so that the intermediate frame 61 b and the lens 62 perform translation leftwardly in the direction of X-axis without being inclined. The aforementioned translations performed in both of the two directions enables the displacement of the optical axis position from the initial lens optical axis position Pa to the target position P_(O) of the optical axis O.

[0195] Thereafter, the adjustment screws are fixed by adhesives. Thus, the adjustment of the position and posture of the optical system is finished.

[0196] Next, a description is given about an operation of adjusting the position and posture of the optical system of the lens frame 60 of the seventh embodiment put in a state in which the lens frame 60 is incorporated into the cam ring.

[0197]FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view of a lens barrel in which the lens frame 60 is incorporated into a rectilinear cam ring 71 that can be incorporated into a rotational cam ring 72.

[0198] The lens frame 60 is incorporated into the rectilinear cam ring 71 and the rotational cam ring 72 in a state in which the cam followers 63 a, 63 b, and 63 c are slidably fitted into rectilinear grooves 71 a, 71 b, and 71 c and cam grooves 72 a, 72 b, and 72 c of the rotational cam ring 72. The adjustment screws 65, 66, 67, and 68, are screwed through adjustment openings 71 d, 71 e, 71 f, and 71 g formed correspondingly to four directions from the rectilinear cam ring 71 and adjustment openings 72 d, 72 e, 72 f, and 72 g formed correspondingly to four directions from the rotational cam ring. In the case that the adjustment of the lens frame 60 is performed in a state in which the lens frame 60 is incorporated into the cam rings as described above, the screwing depth of these adjustment screws is controlled. Thus, the inclination and position of the optical axis are adjusted to the target values of the inclination and position thereof.

[0199] In the case of the lens frame 60 of the seventh embodiment, the lens frame body 61 has a simple integral structure. The adjustment of both the position and inclination of the optical axis orthogonal to the optical axis O of the lens 62 is achieved. The position of the optical axis and the inclination thereof may be performed nearly independently and individually. Consequently, an adjusting operation is easily performed.

[0200] Incidentally, in the case of the lens frame 60 of this embodiment, the deformation caused in the cylindrical portions 61 d, 61 e or 61 f, 61 g is essentially elastic deformation, such as distortion utilizing shearing distortion, unidirectional shearing, and bending. However, if readjustment of the lens frame is not performed, adjustment utilizing plastic deformation may be performed. Furthermore, although the adjustment of the position of the optical axis is performed after the adjustment of the inclination of the optical axis in this embodiment, the order of performing the adjustment of the position and inclination of the optical axis is not limited thereto.

[0201] Next, a lens frame, which is a lens barrel of an eighth embodiment of the present invention, will be described hereinbelow.

[0202]FIG. 26 is a plan view of the lens frame that is the eighth embodiment. Further, FIG. 27 is a sectional view taken on line IX-IX of FIG. 26. FIG. 28 is a sectional view taken on line XI-XI of FIG. 26.

[0203]FIG. 29 is a perspective view of this lens frame mounted in an optical device.

[0204] A lens frame 80 of this embodiment is a lens barrel, or a lens frame adapted so that the position and posture of an optical system incorporated into optical equipment is adjustable. Further, the lens frame 80 consists mainly of a lens frame body 81, a lens 82, which serves as an optical member (namely, an optical device) held in the lens frame body 81, adjustment screws 85, 86, 87, 88, and 89, which serve as adjusting members for adjustment of the position of the optical system, a feed screw 91 for driving the lens frame body 81 in such a manner as to proceed and retreat along the optical axis, and a guide shaft 92 for guiding the guide shaft 92 along the optical axis.

[0205] This lens frame 80 is adapted so that the adjustment for correcting variation in the optical axis when the lens 82 is mounted in the lens frame body 81, namely, the position and posture of the optical system of the lens 82 can be performed. That is, both of the adjustment (or the translation) of the optical axis position in a direction orthogonal to the lens optical axis O and the adjustment of the direction (or posture) of the optical axis O of the lens 82 can be performed. Incidentally, in the case of this embodiment, adjustment references for the adjustment are the feed screw 91 ad the guide shaft 92 for supporting the lens frame.

[0206] Incidentally, the “X-axis” and “Y-axis” respectively denote axes that are perpendicular to the optical axis O of the lens 92 and orthogonal to each other and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions, respectively. Further, a point of intersection between X-axis and Y-axis is denoted by “P₀”, which is nearly equivalent to a point of intersection among the axes of cylindrical portions 81 d, 81 e, 81 f, and 81 g. However, strictly speaking, the axis center of each of the cylindrical portions 81 g and 81 f differs slightly from those in the direction of the optical axis of the cylindrical portions 81 d and 81 e, owing to the structural necessity.

[0207] Furthermore, it is supposed that the surface side of the lens frame 80 of FIG. 26, which corresponds to this side of paper on which FIG. 26 is drawn, is the “front side” and that the back side of FIG. 26, which corresponds to the back side of the paper, is the “rear side” of the lens frame 80.

[0208] The lens 82 is an L-shaped complex curved lens, and constituted by an incidence-side lens block 82 a and an output-side lens block 82 b. Let “O” denote an incidence-side optical axis of the incidence-side lens block 82 a. Further, let “O′” designate an output-side optical axis of the output-side lens block 82 b. The optical axis O′ is parallel with and spaced apart from the optical axis O by a predetermined distance.

[0209] The lens frame body 81 is an integral member in which a connecting portion (to be described later) connects the frame portions 81 a, 81 b, and 81 c. A ring-like inner frame 81 a serves as a holding member (namely, a first frame portion) for holding the lens 82, a ring-like intermediate frame 81 b serves as a first support frame (namely, a second frame portion) disposed so that the frame 81 b surrounds the outer periphery of the inner frame 81 a and forms a gap between the frames 81 a and 81 b, and a ring like outer frame 81 c (namely, a third frame portion) serves as a second support frame disposed so that the frame 81 c surrounds the outer periphery of the intermediate frame 81 b and forms a gap between the frames 81 b and 81 c.

[0210] The inner frame 81 a and the intermediate frame 81 b are connected by cylindrical portions 81 f and 81 g, which are formed in such a way as to be integral with these frames 81 a and 81 b. Cylindrical portions 81 f and 81 g are elastically deformable first connecting portions (namely, a translation (parallel displacement) mechanism and an inclination adjusting mechanism) extending across the optical axis and extending laterally on X₁-axis (as viewed in FIG. 28), which is close and parallel to X-axis. Incidentally, a point of intersection between X₁-axis and the optical axis O is denoted by “P₁”

[0211] Further, the intermediate frame 81 b and the outer frame 81 c are connected by cylindrical portions 81 d and 81 e, which are formed in such a way as to be integral with these frames 81 b and 81 c. Cylindrical portions 81 d and 81 e are elastically deformable second connecting portions (namely, a translation (parallel displacement) mechanism and an inclination adjusting mechanism) extending upwardly and downwardly on Y-axis.

[0212] Further, in the intermediate frame 81 b, female screw portions 81 n and 81 k are opposed to each other and extend along Y₁-axis (see FIG. 27). The Y₁-axis is orthogonal to the X₁-axis. The X₁-axis is the axis center of each of the cylindrical portions 81 f and 81 g, and passes through the point of intersection P₁. Further, an adjustment screw abutting portion 81 r is provided on an upper right side surface of the female screw portion 81 n of the intermediate portion 81 r.

[0213] Incidentally, to avoid the interference between the female screw portions 81 n and 81 k and the cylinder portions 81 d and 81 e, Y₁-axis, which is the axis center of each of the female screw portions 81 n and 81 k, and X₁-axis, which is orthogonal thereto, are slightly deviated in the direction of the optical axis O from Y-axis and X-axis, respectively, as described above.

[0214] In the outer frame 81 c, female screw portions 81 m and 81 j extend along the X-axis and are opposed to one another. Moreover, notch portions 81 q and 81 p, through which adjustment screws pass, are opposed to the female screw portions 81 k and 81 n of the intermediate frame 81 b. Furthermore, in the outer frame 81 c, a female screw portion 81 s is provided in an upper right portion thereof to a horizontal direction parallel to X-axis. Further, a female portion 81 t, in which a feed screw 91 is screwed, is provided at a lower right part of the outer frame 81 c. Moreover, a notch portion 81 u, into which the guide shaft 92 is fitted, is provided at a left upper part of the outer frame 81 c.

[0215] First adjustment screws 86 and 88 which serve as first adjusting members, are screwed into the female screw portions 81 k and 81 n of the intermediate frame 81 b, respectively. Further, adjustment screws 85 and 87 which serve as second adjusting members, are screwed into the female screw portions 81 j and 81 m of the outer frame 81 c. Likewise, an adjustment screw 89 which serves as a third adjusting member, is screwed into the female screw portion 81 s of the outer frame 81 c. Incidentally, the adjustment screws 85, 86, and 89 are flat-point-like slotted machine screws, and the adjustment screws 87 and 88 are slotted machine screws each having a conical end.

[0216] Furthermore, the inner frame 81 a is provided with an inclined projection portion 81 i, which serves as an inclination adjusting mechanism projecting to a place opposed to the female screw portion 81 n of an upper part of the outer peripheral portion of the inner frame 81 a and inclining outwardly, radially and backwardly on Y₁-axis (see FIG. 27). Further, similarly, the intermediate frame 81 b includes an inclined projection portion 81 h on its outer peripheral surface (see FIG. 28) having an inclining surface opposed to the female screw portion 81 m of the outer frame 81 c.

[0217] In a state in which the position and posture of the optical system are unadjusted just upon completion of assembling the lens frame 80 of this eighth embodiment, the initial lens optical axis position Pa is set (see FIGS. 26 and 29) parallel to the optical axis O and as to be slightly rightwardly and downwardly eccentric from the position P₀ of the optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position. Further, an initial lens optical axis direction Da (namely, the inclination of the optical axis) inclines rightwardly and downwardly to the optical axis direction D₀ (that is, the angle of inclination of the optical axis is 0), which is a target direction of adjustment, at the light incidence side (see a perspective view of FIG. 29). Furthermore, the direction of the initial lens inclination Ea (corresponding to the lateral deviation of the optical axis O′) around the optical axis O of the lens is slightly clockwise turned from an adjustment target direction E₀ (which coincides with the direction of Y′-axis) around the optical axis O.

[0218] The reason for setting each of such predetermined initial eccentricity and inclination at a predetermined value corresponding to a predetermined direction is to perform adjustment by maintaining a state in which the adjustment screws 85, 86, 87 and 88, 89 are screwed thereinto and which end faces of these screws are abutted against the outside-diameter surface of the frame and the inclined projection portion 81 h and 81 i and a screw abutting surface 81 r.

[0219] Next, optical system position and posture adjusting operations of the lens frame 80 of the eighth embodiment constructed as described above will be described hereinbelow.

[0220] Such adjustment operations are performed by using an adjustment jig consisting of, for example, a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion. The CCD portion is set on a light-output-side optical axis O′ of FIGS. 27 and 28. The adjustment is performed by taking into consideration the relative positional relation between the optical axis O and the CCD portion.

[0221] In the lens frame 80 of this embodiment, the adjustment of the position and posture of the optical system is performed by supporting the lens frame body 81 by the feed screw 91 and the guide shaft 92. First, the adjustment screws 85, 86, 87, 88, and 89 are screwed in the female screw portions. Then, the screwing depth of each of these adjustment screws is controlled. Thus, the adjustment of the inclination of the lens 82 around the optical axis O is first performed. Subsequently, the adjustment (translation) of the position of the optical axis of the lens 82 is performed.

[0222] Particularly, first, the adjustment screw 89 is screwed in the female screw portion 81 n of the intermediate frame 81 b. Subsequently, shearing or bending elastic deformation is caused in the cylindrical portions 81 d and 81 e by pressing the adjustment screw abutting portion 81 r of the intermediate frame 81 b. Then, the intermediate 81 b is inclined or turned around the optical axis O. Further, the adjustment is performed so that the inclination of the lens 82, which is held in the inner frame 81 a, around the optical axis O is adjusted to the target inclination direction E₀.

[0223] Next, when the adjustment screw 88 is screwed in the female screw portion 81 n of the intermediate frame 81 b, the inclined surface of the inclination projecting portion 81 i of the inner frame 81 a is pushed by the tip end of the adjustment screw. Then, the cylindrical portions 81 f and 81 g elastically deform owing to distortion. Further, the inner frame 81 a is turned clockwise (as viewed from the right in FIG. 29) to a direction (+θ_(x)).

[0224] Moreover, when the adjustment screw 87 is screwed in the female screw portion 81 m of the outer frame 81 c, the inclined surface of the inclined projection portion 81 h of the intermediate frame 81 b is pushed by the tip end of the adjustment screw. Then, the cylindrical portions 81 d and 81 e elastically deform owing to distortion. Further, the inner frame 81 b is turned clockwise (as viewed from above in FIG. 29) to a direction (+θ_(y)). The inclination of the optical axis of the lens is adjusted to the target direction D₀ of the optical axis by inclining or turning the frame portion in both directions.

[0225] Subsequently, the adjustment screw 86 is screwed in the female screw portion 81 k of the intermediate frame 81 b. Thereafter, when a part placed on Y₁-axis in a lower portion of the outer periphery of the inner frame 81 a is pressed, the cylindrical portions 81 f and 81 g cause elastic shearing or bending, so that the inner frame 81 a and the lens 82 perform translation (parallel displacement) upwardly along Y₁-axis without being inclined.

[0226] Then, the adjustment screw 85 is screwed in the female spring portion 81 j of the outer frame 81 c. Thereafter, when an upper right part of the outer peripheral portion of the intermediate frame 81 b, which is placed on the X-axis, is pushed, the cylindrical portions 81 d and 81 e cause elastic shearing or bending, so that the intermediate frame 81 b and the lens 82 perform translation (parallel displacement) leftwardly in the direction of the X-axis without being inclined. The aforementioned translations performed in both of the two directions enable the displacement of the optical axis position from the initial lens optical axis position Pa to the target position P₀ of the optical axis O.

[0227] Further, the adjustment screw (namely, the rocking adjustment member) 89 is screwed in the female screw 81 s of the outer frame 81 c. Thus, rocking is performed owing to the shearing deformation of the cylindrical portion 81 d and to the bending deformation of the cylindrical portion 81 e by pressing the abutting portion 81 r of the intermediate frame 81 b. Thereafter, the adjustment screws are fixed by adhesives. Thus, the adjustment of the position and posture of the optical system is finished.

[0228] According to the lens frame 80 of the eighth embodiment, the lens frame body 81 has an integral simple structure, similarly to the lens frame 60 of the seventh embodiment. The adjustment of the position and incline of an optical axis in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis O of the lens 82 is easily achieved by screwing the adjust screws. In addition, similarly, the adjustment of the inclination around the optical axis O is achieved by screwing the adjustment screws.

[0229] Incidentally, the lens 62 or 82 is employed as the optical member held in the lens frame of each of the aforementioned embodiments. However, optical members, such as a prism and a mirror other than the lenses, may be employed as the optical member held in the lens frame of each of the aforementioned embodiments.

[0230] Further, when the optical member is not mounted in the lens frame body, the adjustment of the position and inclination of the axis of the lens frame may be performed by tentatively mounting a reference optical member. Furthermore, as described above, the adjustment of the inclination around the optical axis, the adjustment of the inclination of the optical axis, and the adjustment of the position of the optical axis are performed in this order. However, the order of performing such adjustment operations is not necessarily limited to this sequence.

[0231] Incidentally, in the foregoing description of the eighth embodiment, it has been described that the optical axis of the lens is adjusted to the center axis of the lens frame. However, if there is another relative position of the lens frame, the optical axis of the lens is not always adjusted to the lens frame center. In short, the position of the optical axis of the lens can be freely adjusted in a given direction.

[0232] As described above, according to the lens barrels of the seventh and eighth embodiments of the present invention, by which the position and posture adjustment of the optical system can be achieved, the adjustment of the position of the optical axis of the optical member (namely, the swinging of the optical axis), and the adjustment of the position of the optical axis in a plane orthogonal to the optical axis are easily attained. Moreover, there is provided a lens frame having a simple structure.

[0233] Next, a lens barrel according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described hereinbelow.

[0234]FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of the lens barrel according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention. As shown in this figure, this lens barrel is incorporated into an optical equipment, such as a camera or a microscope, and adapted to perform the adjustment of the position of the optical axis of the optical system. This lens barrel consists of a lens frame 100, another lens frame 110, and a rectilinear cam ring 122. The lens frames 100 and 110 are disposed in the cam ring 122 to move along the direction of the optical axis O. A rotation cam ring 121 is rotatably fitted onto an outer peripheral portion of the rectilinear cam ring 122. Incidentally, in this lens barrel, it is assumed that a light incidence side optical axis is denoted by “O₁” and that a light output side optical axis is designated by “O₂”.

[0235] As shown in FIG. 31, the lens frame 100 consists mainly of a lens frame body 101 serving as a first frame enabled to perform the lens optical axis position by translation (parallel displacement) to a first direction (namely, the direction of Y₁-axis) in a plane perpendicular to the lens optical axis O corresponding to the center axis of the frame, a lens 102 serving as an optical device held by the lens frame body 101, and cam followers 103, 104, and 105 securely fixed onto the outer periphery of the lens frame body 101.

[0236] Incidentally, X₁-axis and Y₁-axis are orthogonal to each other and to the optical axis O of the lens 102 and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions, respectively. Further, the axis center line of each of plate spring portions 101 d and 101 e serving as connecting portions (to be described later) passes through above the point P₁ of the intersection between X₁-axis and Y₁-axis.

[0237] Furthermore, it is assumed that an adjustment reference for the position of the lens optical axis in this lens barrel is an incorporated rectilinear cam ring 122.

[0238] The lens frame body 101 is an integral structure member in which includes a ring-like inner frame 101 a for holding the lens 102, and a ring-like outer frame 101 b. The ring-like outer frame 101 b is disposed outside of and spaced from the outer periphery of the inner frame 101 a so that there is a gap between the outer periphery of frame 110 a and inner periphery of frame 101 b. The frames 101 a and 101 b are connected by a connecting member (namely, a plate spring member). Incidentally, the cam followers 103, 104, and 105 are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame 101 b is trisected.

[0239] The inner frame 101 a and the outer frame 101 b are connected by plate spring portions 101 d and 101 e, which are two deformable plate-like first connecting portions extending laterally along X₁-axis, as viewed from the direction of the optical axis. The plate spring portions 101 d and 101 e are integrally formed with these frames 101 b and 101 c.

[0240] Incidentally, it is assumed that the plate spring portions 101 d and 101 e can cause elastic deformation, which mainly includes shearing distortion, in the direction of the Y₁-axis. Further, these plate springs respectively have shapes, which are nearly symmetrical with respect to the planes containing the X₁-axis and the Y₁-axis, so that when these plate springs are pushed by adjustment screws 106 (to be described later) through screw abutting portions of the inner frame 101 a in the direction of the Y₁-axis, the plate portions deform in such a way as to perform translation without being inclined to the optical axis O. That is, as described above, the axis center line of each of the plate spring portions 101 d and 101 e passes through above the point of intersection P₁. Further, the abutting surface of the adjustment screw 106 is placed on a plane containing the point of intersection P₁.

[0241] In the outer frame 101 b, a female screw portion 101 i serving as a first adjusting means is provided on the Y₁-axis. Further, in the female screw portion 10 c, an adjustment screw 106 serving as a first regulating means has an end portion, which is a flat-point-like slotted machine screw that abuts against the outer periphery of the inner frame 110 a.

[0242] Incidentally, prior to adjustment of the optical system, the initial lens optical axis position Pa is set slightly upwardly, and eccentric from the center position (namely, the position of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position, of the lens frame 100), as viewed in FIG. 31.

[0243] An eccentricity amount of the position Pa in the direction of Y₁-axis is set more than at least an adjustment amount of the lens optical axis position. Pa is kept eccentric by the adjustment screw 106 which is screwed through the lens frame body 101, and abutted against the screw abutting surface of the outer periphery of the inner frame 101 a. Incidentally, the eccentricity in the direction of X₁-axis of the initial lens optical axis position Pa is comprehensively regulated by the lens frame 100 (to be described later). Thus, the position Pa has only to be placed nearly on Y₁-axis within a range of variation in products.

[0244] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 33 and FIG. 34, the lens frame 110 consists mainly of a lens frame body 111 serving as a second frame enabled to perform the lens optical axis position by translation to a second direction (namely, the direction of horizontal X₁-axis (to be described later)) orthogonal to the fist direction in a plane perpendicular to the lens optical axis O corresponding to the center axis of the frame, a lens 112 serving as an optical device held by the lens frame body 111, and cam followers 113, 114, and 115 securely fixed onto the outer periphery of the lens frame body 111.

[0245] Incidentally, X₂-axis and Y₂-axis are orthogonal to each other and to the optical axis O of the lens 112 and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions, respectively. Further, the axis center line of each of the plate spring portions 111 d and 111 e serve as connecting portions (to be described later) and each passes through above the point P₂ of intersection between X₂-axis and Y₂-axis, which are parallel to X₁-axis and Y₁-axis of the lens frame 100, respectively. Thus, X₂-axis and Y₂-axis are orthogonal to Y₁-axis (corresponding to the first direction) and X₂-axis (corresponding to the second direction).

[0246] The lens frame body 111 is an integral structure member in which a ring-like inner frame 111 a for holding the lens 112, and a ring-like outer frame 111 b, which is disposed outside of and, spaced from, the outer periphery of the inner frame 111 a, are connected by a connecting member (namely, a plate spring member). Incidentally, the cam followers 113, 114, and 115 are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame 111 b is trisected.

[0247] The inner frame 111 a and the outer frame 111 b are connected by plate spring portions 111 d and 111 e. The plate spring portions 111 d and 111 e are integrally formed with the frames 111 b and 111 c, and are two deformable plate-like first connecting portions extending upwardly and downwardly along Y₂-axis, as viewed from the direction of the optical axis.

[0248] Incidentally, it is assumed that the plate spring portions 111 d and 111 e can cause elastic deformation, which mainly includes shearing distortion, in the direction of Y₂-axis. Further, these plate springs respectively have nearly symmetrical shapes with respect to the planes containing X₂-axis and Y₂-axis, so that when these plate springs are pushed by adjustment screws 116 (to be described later) through screw abutting portions of the inner frame 111 a in the direction of Y₂-axis, the plate portions deform in such a way as to perform translation (parallel displacement) without being inclined to the optical axis O. That is, as described above, the axis center line of each of the plate spring portions 111 d and 111 e passes through above the point of intersection P₂. Further, the abutting surface of the adjustment screw 116 is placed on a plane containing the point of intersection P₂.

[0249] In the outer frame 111 b, a female screw portion 111 i serving as a first adjusting means is provided on X₂-axis. Further, in the female screw portion 111 c, an adjustment screw 116 serving as a first regulating means is a flat-point-like slotted machine screw having an end portion abutting against the outer periphery of the inner frame 111 a.

[0250] Incidentally, prior to adjustment of the optical system, the initial lens optical axis position Pb is set slightly upwardly eccentric from the center position (namely, the position of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position of the lens frame 110), as viewed n FIG. 33.

[0251] An eccentricity amount of the position Pb in the direction of X₂-axis is set more than at least an adjustment amount of the lens optical axis position. Pb is kept eccentric by the adjustment screw 116, which is screwed through the lens frame body 101, and abutted against the screw abutting surface of the outer periphery of the inner frame 111 a. Incidentally, the eccentricity in the direction of Y₂-axis of the initial lens optical axis position Pb is comprehensively regulated by the lens frame 110. Thus, the position Pb has only to be placed nearly on X₂-axis within a range of variation in products.

[0252] The rectilinear cam ring 122 is a stationary member mounted on the optical equipment and has three rectilinear guide grooves 122 a in the outer peripheral portion thereof, into which the cam followers 103, 104, 105 and 113, 114, 115 of the lens frames 100 and 110 are slidably fitted, and has openings 122 b and 122 c, through which the adjustment screws 106 and 116 of the frames 100 and 110 are inserted, for regulating these screws 106 and 116.

[0253] The rotational cam ring 121 is a member rotatably fitted into the outer periphery of the rectilinear cam ring 122 and has three cam grooves 121 a, into which the cam followers 103, 104, 105 of the lens frame 100 are respectively slidably fitted, and cam grooves 121 b, into which the cam followers 113, 114, 115 of the lens frame 110 are respectively slidably fitted, three guide grooves 121 c in the outer peripheral portion thereof for fitting the cam followers into the corresponding cam grooves 121 a and 121 b, and openings 121 d and 121 e, through which the adjustment screws 106 and 116 of the frames 100 and 110 are inserted, for regulating these screws 106 and 116.

[0254] In the lens barrel of this embodiment, the lens frames 100 and 110 are incorporated thereinto in a side-by-side manner by fitting the cam followers into the guide grooves 122 a in the inner peripheral portion of the rectilinear cam ring 122. Moreover, the rotational cam ring 121 is fitted into the outer peripheral portion of the rectilinear cam ring 122. Furthermore, the cam followers of the lens frame are fitted into the cam grooves 121 a and 121 b.

[0255] Next, an optical axis position adjusting operation of the lens barrel of the ninth embodiment constructed in the aforementioned manner will be described hereinbelow.

[0256] The optical axis position adjustment of the lens barrel, to which the lens frames 100 and 110 are incorporated, is performed on the rectilinear cam ring 122 and the rotational cam ring 121 by using an adjustment jig consisting of a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion. When such adjustment is performed, the point light source portion of the adjustment jig is set at the light incidence side thereof, while the CCD portion is set at the light output side thereof. Further, the optical axis position is caused to perform translation (parallel displacement) in a plane orthogonal to the optical axis of the lens according to an optical axis detection signal outputted from the CCD portion. Thus, the optical axis position is adjusted to a target optical axis position.

[0257] Incidentally, an optical axis O₂ at the light output side is employed as an adjustment target optical axis position. Further, an axis passing through this optical axis O₂ and parallel to Y₁-axis and Y₂-axis is designated by “Y₀-axis”. Moreover, an axis passing through this optical axis O₂ and parallel to X₁-axis and X₂-axis is designated by “X_(O)-axis”.

[0258] First, the screwing depth of the adjustment screw 106 of the lens frame 100 is regulated through the openings 121 d and 122 b so as to perform the adjustment of the optical axis position in the direction of Y₀-axis. That is, when the adjustment screw 106 is screwed, the plate springs 110 d and 101 e deform, so that the inner frame 110 a translates downwardly in the direction of Y₁-axis by maintaining the parallel condition thereof with respect to the optical axis O. Thus, the optical axis position in the direction of Y₀-axis is determined.

[0259] Subsequently, the screwing depth of the adjustment screw 116 of the lens frame 110 is regulated through the openings 121 e and 122 c so as to perform the adjustment of the optical axis position in the direction of X₀-axis. That is, when the adjustment screw 116 is screwed, the plate springs 111 d and 111 e deform, so that the inner frame 111 a translates leftwardly from the direction of X₂-axis by maintaining the parallel condition thereof with respect to the optical axis O. Thus, the optical axis position in the direction of X₀-axis is determined.

[0260] As a result of the positioning adjustment in X₀-axis and Y₁-axis, the comprehensive optical axis position at the light output side of each of the lens frames 100 and 110 is adjusted to the target optical axis position O₂. Upon completion of setting the adjusted position, the adjustment is finished by fixing the adjustment screws 106 and 116 to the female screw portions 101 c and 111 c by adhesives, respectively.

[0261] Incidentally, the movement of the frame portions at the time of adjustment of the lens optical axis position is realized by the deformation of the plate spring portions (or deformation portions) 101 d and 101 e in the direction of Y₁-axis and by the deformation of the plate spring portions (or deformation portions) 111 d and 111 e in the direction of X₂-axis. Such deformation is microdeformation and synthesized from one or both of the bending strain, which is caused due to the bending moment of the parallel spring portion, and the shearing strain, which is caused owing to the shearing force thereof.

[0262] Additionally, if readjustment of the lens frame is not performed, the plate spring portions 101 d, 101 e, 111 d, and 111 e may utilize not only elastic deformation but also plastic deformation.

[0263] As described above, in the case of the lens barrel of this ninth embodiment, the adjustments of the optical axis position utilizing translation in the two lens frames 100 and 110 correspondingly to the directions of X₀-axis and Y₀-axis can be performed independently thereof. Thus, the adjustment operations are extremely simplified. Moreover, the adjustment accuracy is enhanced. Simultaneously, the cost thereof is reduced because of the simple structure of the lens frames 100 and 110.

[0264] Incidentally, in the lens barrels of the aforementioned embodiments, the first and second directions for the optical axis adjustment are orthogonal to each other. It is unnecessary that the first and second directions are orthogonal to each other in the strict sense. Even when the first and second directions are nearly orthogonal to each other, the optical axis adjustment can be performed. Further, in the foregoing description, both the optical axes of the lenses 102 and 112 are adjusted to the optical axis O₂. However, the position of the optical axes are not limited thereto. As long as the optical axes of the lenses 102 and 112 coincide with each other, other positions of these optical axes may be employed. Thus, the optical axes of the lenses 102 and 112 are not necessarily adjusted to the optical axis O₂.

[0265] As described above, according to the lens barrel of the ninth embodiment of the present invention, the adjustment of the positions of the optical axes of the lenses can be performed by using the first frame and the second frame and utilizing the translation of the optical axes in two directions. Thus, the adjustment operation is easily achieved. Moreover, the structure of the lens frame is simplified.

[0266] Next, a lens barrel according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention will be described hereinbelow.

[0267]FIG. 35 is an exploded perspective view of the lens barrel that is the tenth embodiment of the present invention. As shown in this figure, this lens barrel is incorporated into an optical equipment, such as a camera or a microscope and adapted in such a way as to be able to perform the adjustment of the position of the optical system optical axis. This lens barrel consists of a lens frame 200, another lens frame 210, a rectilinear cam ring 222 on which the lens frames 200 and 210 are disposed to move along the direction of the optical axis O, and a rotation cam ring 221 to be rotatably fitted into an outer peripheral portion of the rectilinear cam ring 122. Incidentally, in this lens barrel, it is assumed that a light incidence side optical axis is denoted by “O₁”, and that a light output side optical axis is designated by “O₂”.

[0268] As shown in FIG. 36, and FIG. 37, the lens frame 200 consists mainly of a lens frame body 201 serving as a first frame, a lens 202 serving as an optical device held by the lens frame body 201, and cam followers 203, 204, and 205 securely fixed onto the outer periphery of the lens frame body 201. In the case of this lens frame 200, the translation adjustment (namely, the centration) of the optical axis position of the lens 202, namely, the optical axis position in a plane orthogonal to the lens optical axis O, can be performed. The lens 202 has a lens configuration that significantly contributes to the optical axis position adjustment (or the centering).

[0269] Incidentally, X₁-axis and Y₁-axis are orthogonal to each other and to the optical axis O of the lens 202 and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions, respectively. Further, the axis center lines of plate spring portions 201 d and 201 e and 201 f and 201 g serving as connecting portions (to be described later) intersect one another above the point P₀ of the intersection between X₁-axis and Y₁-axis.

[0270] The lens frame body 201 is an integral structure member in which a ring-like inner frame 201 a for holding the lens 202 and a ring-like intermediate frame 201 b, which is disposed outside of, and spaced from, the outer periphery of the inner frame 201 a, and a ring-like outer frame 201 c, which is disposed outside of, and spaced from, the outer periphery of the intermediate frame 201 b, are connected by a connecting member (namely, a plate spring member). Incidentally, the cam followers 203, 204, and 205 are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame 201 c is trisected.

[0271] The inner frame 201 a and the intermediate frame 201 b are connected by parallel spring portions 201 d and 201 e. The parallel spring portions 201 d and 201 e are integrally formed with the frames 201 a and 201 b, and are two deformable plate-like first connecting portions extending upwardly and downwardly and striding over Y₁-axis, as viewed from the direction of the optical axis.

[0272] Further, the intermediate frame 201 b and the outer frame 201 c are connected by parallel spring portions 201 f and 201 g, integrally formed with the frames 201 b and 201 c. The parallel spring portions 201 f and 201 g are two deformable plate-like first connecting portions extending laterally and striding over X₁-axis, as viewed from the direction of the optical axis.

[0273] Incidentally, the plate spring portions 201 d, 201 e and 201 f, 201 g deform in the direction of X₁-axis or Y₁-axis when the screw abutting portion is pressed by adjustment screws (to be described later), in such a manner as to maintain the parallel relation therebetween, so that the inner frame 201 a or the intermediate frame 201 b translates without being inclined toward the optical axis O. This is because the center lines of the parallel spring portions 201 d, 201 e, and 201 f, 201 g pass through the point of intersection P₀ and have symmetric shapes with respect to a plane containing X₁-axis and Y₁-axis, and because the screw abutting portions of the adjustment screws (to be described later) are placed on X₁-axis and Y₁-axis.

[0274] Furthermore, regarding two sets of two parallel springs 201 d, 201 e and 201 f, 201 g, each of these parallel springs can perform the functions thereof.

[0275] In the intermediate frame 201 b, a female screw portion 201 i serving as a first adjusting means is provided on X₁-axis. In the inner frame 201 a, a screw abutting surface 201 k is provided at a place inwardly opposed to the female screw portion 201 i. Further, in the outer frame 201 c, an opening 201 h, through which the adjustment screw passes, is provided at a place outwardly opposed to the female screw portion 201 i. Similarly, in the outer frame 201 c, a female screw portion 201 j is provided as adjusting means of the body 201. In the intermediate frame 201 b, a screw abutting surface 201 m is provided at a place inwardly opposed to the female screw portion 201 j.

[0276] In the intermediate frame 201 b, an adjustment screw 206 serving as first adjusting means is screwed through the opening 201 h. Furthermore, in the female screw portion 201 of the outer frame 201 c, an adjustment screw 207 serving as the first adjusting means is screwed. Incidentally, the screws 206 and 207 are flat-point-like slotted machine screws. Preferably, the end portion of such a screw has a curved or spherical surface.

[0277] Incidentally, prior to the adjustment of the optical system, the initial lens optical axis position Z is set slightly upwardly eccentric from the center position (namely, the position of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position, of the lens frame 200), as viewed in FIG. 36. An eccentricity amount of the position z is set in such a manner as to be more than at least an adjustment amount of the lens optical axis position Z is kept eccentric by the adjustment screw 206, which is screwed through the lens frame body and abutted against the screw abutting surface 201 k of the inner frame 201 a.

[0278] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 38, and FIG. 39 the lens frame 210 consists mainly of a lens frame body 211 serving as a second frame, a lens 212 serving as an optical device held by the lens frame body 211, and cam followers 213, 214, and 215 securely fixed onto the outer periphery of the lens frame body 211. The lens frame 210 is adapted so that the adjustment of the optical system position of the lens 212, namely, the adjustment of the incline of the optical axis O, can be performed. The lens 212 incorporated into this lens frame 210 has a lens configuration that greatly contributes to the inclination of the lens optical axis.

[0279] Incidentally, X₂-axis and Y₂-axis are orthogonal to each other and to the optical axis O of the lens 212 and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions, respectively. Further, the axis center line of each of cylindrical portions 211 d, 211 e and 211 f, 211 g, which serve as connecting portions (to be described later), passes through above the point P₀ of intersection between X₂-axis and Y₂-axis, which are parallel to X₁-axis and Y₁-axis, respectively.

[0280] Moreover, it is supposed that the surface side of the lens frame 210 on FIG. 38 (which corresponds to the left-hand side thereof, as viewed in FIG. 39) is the “front side” thereof, and that the back side thereof on FIG. 38 (which corresponds to the right-hand side thereof, as viewed in FIG. 39) is the “rear side” thereof.

[0281] The lens frame body 211 is an integral structure member in which a ring-like inner frame 211 a for holding the lens 212, a ring-like intermediate frame 211 b, which is disposed outside of, and spaced from, the outer periphery of the inner frame 211 a, and a ring-like outer frame 211 c, which is disposed outside of, and spaced from, the outer periphery of the intermediate frame 211 b, are connected by a connecting member. Incidentally, the cam followers 213, 214, and 215 are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame 211 b is trisected.

[0282] The inner frame 211 a and the intermediate frame 211 b are connected by cylindrical portions 211 d and 211 e. Cylindrical portions 211 d and 211 e are integrally formed with the frames 211 a and 211 b, each being a distortionally deformable cylindrical portion serving as a connecting portion and extending upwardly and downwardly along Y₂-axis, as viewed from the direction of the optical axis.

[0283] Furthermore, the intermediate frame 211 b and the outer frame 211 c are connected by cylindrical portions 211 f and 211 g. These cylindrical portions are integrally formed with the frames 211 a and 211 b, each being a distortionally deformable cylindrical portion serving as a connecting portion and extending laterally on X₂-axis.

[0284] In the intermediate frame 211 b, a female screw portion 211 k serving as a second adjusting means is provided in the vicinity of X₂-axis, in a right side part of the outer periphery of the intermediate frame of FIG. 38. Further, in the female screw portion 211 c, a female screw portion 211 m serving as a second adjusting means is provided in the vicinity of Y₂-axis, in an upper part of the outer periphery of the outer frame of FIG. 38. Incidentally, a notch 211 n, through which the adjustment screw passes, is provided at a place opposed to the female screw portion 211 k of the outer frame 211 c.

[0285] An adjustment screw 216 serving as second adjusting means is screwed in the female screw portion 211 k of the intermediate frame 211 b. An adjustment screw 217 serving as second adjusting means is screwed in the female screw portion 211 m of the outer frame 211 c. The adjustment screws 216 and 217 are slotted machine screws each having a conical end portion.

[0286] Furthermore, the inner frame 211 a is provided with an inclined projection portion 211 i, which serves as an inclination adjusting mechanism projecting opposed to the female screw portion 211 k of an upper part of the outer peripheral portion of the inner frame 211 a, and inclining outwardly, radially and backwardly on X₂-axis, in a right-hand side part of the outer peripheral portion thereof. Further, similarly, the intermediate frame 211 b is provided with an inclined projection portion 211 j, which serves as an inclined outwardly portion that faces the female screw portion 211 m of the outer frame 211 c, and projecting upwardly from its outer peripheral portion, and extending along the Y₂-axis inclined in a backwardly and outwardly direction.

[0287] The inclined surfaces of the projection portions 211 i and 211 j can be pressed by the adjustment screws 216 and 217 from the directions of X₂-axis and Y₂-axis. When pressed by the screws 216 and 217, the intermediate frame 211 b and the outer frame 211 c are inclined to X₂-axis and Y₂-axis, so that the inclination of the optical axis of the lens 212 can be changed.

[0288] Incidentally, prior to the adjustment of the optical system, the initial lens optical axis direction (namely, the inclination of the optical axis at the light output side) α_(z) is turned upwardly and leftwardly from the adjustment target direction α₀ (namely, the degree of the optical axis angle is 0°) within an adjustable range, a shown in FIG. 35. The reason for preliminarily turning the initial lens optical axis direction α_(z) by a predetermined number of degrees is that the adjustment should be performed by maintaining a state in which the conical end portions of the adjustment screws are abutted against the abutting portion 211 i and 211 j.

[0289] The rectilinear cam ring 222 is a stationary member mounted on the optical equipment and has three rectilinear guide grooves 222 a in the outer peripheral portion thereof, into which the cam followers 203, 204, 205 and 213, 214, 215 of the lens frames 200 and 210 are slidably fitted, has openings 222 d and 222 e, through which the adjustment screws 206 and 207 of the frames 200 are inserted, for regulating these screws 206 and 207, and has openings 222 f and 222 g, through which the adjustment screws 216 and 217 of the frames 210 are inserted, for regulating these screws 216 and 217

[0290] The rotational cam ring 221 is a member rotatably fitted into the outer periphery of the rectilinear cam ring 222 and has three cam grooves 221 a, into which the cam followers 203, 204, 205 and 213, 214, 215 of the lens frame 200 and 210 are respectively slidably fitted, three cam grooves 221 b, into which the cam followers 213, 214, 215 of the lens frame 210 are respectively slidably fitted, three guide grooves 221 c for fitting the cam followers into the corresponding cam grooves 221 a and 221 b in the outer peripheral portion thereof, and has openings 221 d and 221 e, through which the adjustment screws 206 and 216 of the frames 200 and 210 are inserted, for regulating these screws 206 and 216.

[0291] In this embodiment, the lens frames 200 and 210 are incorporated into the lens barrel in a side-by-side manner by fitting the cam followers into the guide grooves 222 a in the inner peripheral portion of the rectilinear cam ring 222 so that the frame 210 is incorporated at the light output side, and that the frame 220 is incorporated at the light incidence side. Moreover, the rotational cam ring 221 is fitted into the outer peripheral portion of the rectilinear cam ring 222. Furthermore, the cam followers of the lens frame are rotatably fitted into the cam grooves 221 a and 221 b. Thus, the assembling of this lens barrel is completed.

[0292] Next, an optical axis position adjusting operation of the lens barrel of the tenth embodiment constructed in the aforementioned manner will be described hereinbelow.

[0293] The optical axis position adjustment of the lens barrel when the lens frames 200 and 210 are respectively incorporated into the rectilinear cam ring 222 and the rotational cam ring 221 is performed by using an adjustment jig consisting of a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion. When such adjustment is performed, the point light source portion of the adjustment jig is set at the light incidence side thereof, while the CCD portion is set at the light output side thereof. Further, the incline of the lens optical axis, and the optical axis position are adjusted utilizing the translation of the lens in a plane orthogonal to the optical axis of the lens according to an optical axis detection signal outputted from the CCD portion.

[0294] First, the screwing depth of the adjustment screws 216 and 217 of the lens frame 210 are regulated through the openings 221 f, 222 f and 221 g, 222 g so as to perform the adjustment of the inclination of the lens optical axis. That is, the inclined projection portion 211I is pressed by the end portion of the adjustment screw, and the cylindrical portions 211 d and 211 e distortionally deform, so that the inner frame 211 a holding the lens 212 is inclined clockwise (as viewed from above in FIG. 35).

[0295] Further, the inclined projection portion 211 j is pushed by the end portion of the adjustment screw 217, so that the cylindrical portions 211 f and 211 g distortionally deform and that the inner frame 211 a and the intermediate frame 211 b are turned clockwise (as viewed from the right-hand side in FIG. 35). Thus, the incline of the initial lens optical axis inclination α_(z) of the optical axis O₂ is adjusted to the adjustment target direction α₀. As a result of this adjustment, the adjustment of the comprehensive inclination of the optical axis of the frames 200 and 210 is obtained. Thus, the adjustment of at least one direction can be achieved.

[0296] Next, the screwing depth of the adjustment screws 206 and 207 of the lens frame 200 is regulated through the openings 221 d, 222 d and 221 e, 222 e so as to perform the adjustment of the position of the optical axis. That is, when the screw 206 is screwed, the parallel spring portions 201 d, 201 e perform bending deformation (strictly speaking, bending or shearing or the combination thereof), so that the inner frame 201 a translates in the direction of X₁ by maintaining the parallel condition thereof with respect to the optical axis O.

[0297] Further, when the screw 207 is screwed, the parallel spring portions 201 f and 201 g deform, so that the intermediate frame 201 b translates in the direction of Y₁ by maintaining the parallel condition thereof with respect to the optical axis O. As a result of this translation, the lens optical axis position of the output side optical axis O₂ is adjusted to the target optical axis position O. The comprehensive optical axis position of the frames 200 and 210 is obtained by this adjustment. Thus, the adjustment of at least one direction can be achieved.

[0298] Thereafter, the screws 206, 207 and 216, 217 are fixed to the female screw portions 201I, 201 j and 211 k, 211 m. Then, the adjustment is finished.

[0299] As described above, according to the lens barrel of the tenth embodiment of the present invention, the adjustment of the position of the optical axes of the lenses and the adjustment of the inclination of the optical axis thereof by utilizing the translation of the optical axes are independently performed in two lens frames 200 and 210. Thus, the adjustment operation is significantly simplified. The adjustment accuracy is also enhanced. Simultaneously, the cost is reduced because of the simple structures of the lens frames 200 and 210.

[0300] Incidentally, although the adjustment of the position of the optical axis is performed on the frame 210 and the frame 200 in this order, the order of performing the adjustment of the position and inclination of the optical axis is not limited thereto.

[0301] Additionally, in the lens barrel of the embodiments, the adjustment of the optical axis position and the adjustment of the optical axis inclination are performed by maintaining the state in which the frames 200 and 210 are incorporated in the rectilinear cam ring 222. However, the frames 200 and 210 greatly affect the optical axis position and the optical axis inclination, respectively. Thus, the adjustment operation may be performed as follows. That is, the adjustment of the optical axis position is performed on the frame 200 singly, while the adjustment of the optical axis inclination is performed on the frame 210 single. Thereafter, the frames 200 and 210 are incorporated into the rectilinear cam ring 222 and the rotational cam ring 221.

[0302] Further, if readjustment of the lens frame is not performed, deformation of the parallel spring portions 201 d and 201 f of the frame 200 and that of the cylindrical portions 211 d and 211 f of the frame 210 may be obtained by utilizing not only elastic deformation but also plastic deformation.

[0303] As described above, according to the lens barrel of the tenth embodiment of the present invention, the adjustment of the positions of the optical axes of the lenses can be performed by using the first frame and the second frame, respectively. Thus, the adjustment operation is easily achieved. Moreover, the adjustment accuracy is enhanced. Furthermore, the structure of the lens frame is simple. Consequently, significant reduction in cost is achieved.

[0304] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited thereto and that other modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the sprint of the invention.

[0305] The scope of the present invention, therefore, should be determined solely by the appended claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A lens barrel comprising: a first frame including a first frame portion having an optical axis of said lens barrel, a second frame portion, a third frame portion, a first connecting portion for connecting said first frame portion to said second frame portion, and a second connecting portion for connecting said second frame portion to said third frame portion; a second frame including a fourth frame portion having an optical axis of said lens barrel, a fifth frame portion, a sixth frame portion, a third connecting portion for connecting said fourth frame portion to said fifth frame portion, and a fourth connecting portion for connecting said fifth frame portion to said sixth frame portion; first adjusting members provided in said second and third frame portions, respectively, and adapted to perform inclination adjustment of the optical axis; and second adjusting members provided in said fifth and sixth frame portions, respectively, and adapted to perform translation adjustment of said fourth frame portion in a plane orthogonal to the optical axis.
 2. The lens barrel according to claim 1, further coprising: a seventh frame stowing the first frame and the second frame, wherein said first, second and third frame portions are provided in such a manner as to be able to be inserted into said seventh frame, and wherein at least one of said first and second adjusting members are able to be adjusted exteriorly of said seventh frame.
 3. The lens barrel according to claim 1, wherein said first frame portion has an optical device.
 4. The lens barrel according to claim 1, wherein at least one of said adjusting members comprises a screw.
 5. The lens barrel according to claim 4, wherein a frame portion which abuts against said screw, has a sloped surface at an abutting part thereof.
 6. The lens barrel according to claim 1, wherein said first and second adjusting members are adjusted from a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.
 7. The lens barrel according to claim 1, wherein said first, second and third frame portions of said first frame are formed in such a manner as to be integral with one another.
 8. The lens barrel according to claim 1, wherein said fourth, fifth, and sixth frame portions of said second frame are formed in such a manner as to be integral with one another.
 9. A lens barrel comprising: a guide member; a first moving frame guided by the guide member, said first moving frame including a first frame portion having an optical axis of said lens barrel, a second frame portion, a third frame portion guided by said guide member in a direction of the optical axis, a first connecting portion for connecting said first frame portion to said second frame portion, and a second connecting portion for connecting said second frame portion to said third frame portion; a second moving frame guided by the guide member, said second moving frame including a fourth frame portion having an optical axis of said lens barrel, a fifth frame portion, a sixth frame portion guided by said guide member in a direction of the optical axis, a third connecting portion for connecting said fourth frame portion to said fifth frame portion, and a fourth connecting portion for connecting said fifth frame portion to said sixth frame portion; first adjusting members provided in said second and third frame portions, respectively, and adapted to perform inclination adjustment of the optical axis; and second adjusting members provided in said fifth and sixth frame portions, respectively, and adapted to perform translation adjustment of said fourth frame portion in a plane orthogonal to the optical axis.
 10. The lens barrel according to claim 9, wherein said first, second and third frame portions are provided in such a manner as to be able to be inserted into said guide frame, and wherein at least one of said first and second adjusting members is able to be adjusted from outside of said guide frame.
 11. The lens barrel according to claim 9, wherein said first frame portion has an optical device.
 12. The lens barrel according to claim 9, wherein said adjusting member is a screw.
 13. The lens barrel according to claim 12, wherein said frame portion abutting against said screw, which is said first adjusting member, has a sloped surface of an abutting part thereof.
 14. The lens barrel according to claim 9, wherein said first and second adjusting members are adjusted from a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.
 15. The lens barrel according to claim 9, wherein said first, second and third frame portions of said first moving frame are formed in such a manner as to be integral with one another.
 16. The lens barrel according to claim 9, wherein said fourth, fifth, and sixth frame portions of said second moving frame are formed in such a manner as to be integral with one another.
 17. A lens barrel, comprising: a stationary lens holder having an optical axis associated therewith; a first lens assembly supporting a first lens and a second lens assembly supporting a second lens, the first and second lens assemblies being supported within said lens alongside one another in the direction of the optical axis of the lens holder, the lens of the first lens assembly having its respective optical axis and the lens of the second assembly having its respective optical axis; an adjusting mechanism for the first lens assembly which enables translation of the lens optical axis of the first assembly in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the lens holder and a second adjusting mechanism for the second lens assembly that enables adjusting an angle of inclination of the lens thereof relative to the optical axis of the lens holder.
 18. The lens barrel of claim 17, in which the first lens assembly comprises outer, intermediate, and inner concentric frames, with the inner frame holding the lens thereof and the position of the inner frame being adjustable by the first adjusting mechanism relative to the outer frame.
 19. The lens barrel of claim 17, in which the second lens assembly comprises outer, intermediate, and inner concentric frames, with the inner frame holding the lens thereof and the position of the inner frame being adjustable by the second adjusting mechanism relative to the outer frame.
 20. The lens barrel of claim 17, in which the first adjusting mechanism comprises at least one threadable screw that is threadable in a general direction orthogonal to the optical axis of the lens holder.
 21. The lens barrel of claim 17, in which the first adjusting mechanism comprises first and second screws that have threading directions which are perpendicular to one another.
 22. The lens barrel of claim 17, further comprising a rotatable cam ring disposed around the lens holder and including camming surfaces which are engaged with corresponding camming projections of the first and second lens assemblies, in a manner which enables translating the position of the first and second lens assemblies back and forth substantially along the optical axis of the lens holder.
 23. The lens barrel of claim 18, including resilient material disposed between the outer, intermediate and inner frames of the first lens assembly.
 24. The lens barrel of claim 18, including resilient material disposed between the outer, intermediate and inner frames of the second lens assembly.
 25. The lens barrel of claim 17, in which the second adjusting mechanism comprises at least one screw with a conically shaped tip that interact with a complimentarily shaped surface of the inner frame of the second lens assembly. 